The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
SCHOOL COMMUNITY. Students from K to 12 come together for the all school assembly on April 22. (Photo reprinted with permission from SPA Smugmug)
Students off to summer break, regular reporting to return in August
June 9, 2025
DESERVED DIPLOMA: US principal Minnie Lee announces Henry Giles ('24) just before he receives his diploma from Head of School Luis Ottley. USC presidents organize diplomas, with 24-25 co-presidents Annie Zhang pictured.
With levity and love, class of ’25 will graduate June 8
June 2, 2025
IN IT TO WIN IT. (From left to right) Senior Deling Chen, juniors Maren Overgaard, Huxley Westemeier and Evan Morris pose in front of a Regeneron ISEF poster.
ISEF finalists bring back more than just awards
May 23, 2025
CANCELLED. The 2025 NAIS PoCC/SDLC Conference will not take place this December.
NAIS cancels conferences that centered students of color
May 20, 2025
Jill Romans accepts Head of School position at Pine Cobble School
Jill Romans accepts Head of School position at Pine Cobble School
May 19, 2025
DEBATABLE DOLLARS. While these top Minnesota nonprofits operate to serve the public good, the high salaries or their CEOs call into question whether donations to the organization are funding the mission or the executive. (Infographic made by Amanda Hsu and Sonia Kharbanda)
High nonprofit CEO salaries damage integrity
May 28, 2025
(Wikimedia Commons)
Restorative conversations: helpful or ineffective?
May 27, 2025
DIVERSITY WITHIN THE NAME. "Asian American" encompasses 19.4 million people and hundreds of ethnicities. Data disaggregation shines a spotlight in these ethnicities, ensuring that Asian American is not a monolith.
The myth in the median: what data disaggregation can reveal about Asian Americans
May 26, 2025
HUNTING HONORS. Success plays a central role in learning. However, stepping away from the “success above all else” mindset can create new opportunities for development.
Embrace failure and reject achievement culture to grow
May 24, 2025
The Sift is a weekly The Rubicon opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
Seriously, what benefit does generative AI art offer humanity?
May 23, 2025
HUNTING HONORS. Success plays a central role in learning. However, stepping away from the “success above all else” mindset can create new opportunities for development.
Embrace failure and reject achievement culture to grow
May 24, 2025
ACTIVISM. The University of South Carolina’s Mental Illness Needs Discussion club (USC MIND) ignited the “#SpeakYourMIND” Ice Bucket Challenge.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] More than a trend: make change offline
May 13, 2025
PASSIONATE PROTESTING. A child participates in the “Hands Off” protest at the State Capitol Apr. 5. Protests allow one to move from talking about an issue to acting on it; protesting can also combat isolation and hopelessness.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Take action: attend a protest, leave empowered
April 22, 2025
EVERYONE HAS A RIGHT. Whether you are a citizen or not, these recent ICE arrests of international university students show that this is an attack on citizens' rights as well.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] ICE entering universities affects everyone
April 12, 2025
MAKE A CHANGE. There is so much to be thankful for and so many people to thank, so let’s replace complaining with thankfulness.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Drop the attitude for gratitude
March 18, 2025
The Sift is a weekly The Rubicon opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
Seriously, what benefit does generative AI art offer humanity?
May 23, 2025
“The Sift” is a weekly opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
Dire Wolves, Dodos, and Woolly Mammoths Oh My!
May 9, 2025
Chronically Online is a monthly column to help readers develop media literacy skills. (Image created in Adobe Express)
When satire becomes misinformation, it’s not funny
May 1, 2025
The Sift is a weekly The Rubicon opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
It’s time: Let’s talk about social media.
April 24, 2025
The Sift is a weekly The Rubicon opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
Earth Day, 2025: What are tech companies doing for the environment?
April 19, 2025
Equality and equity in sports for trans athletes
Equality and equity in sports for trans athletes
May 11, 2025
New phone policy ignores student perspectives
New phone policy ignores student perspectives
October 3, 2024
There are healthier ways to find value in life than thinking about death
There are healthier ways to find value in life than thinking about death
December 5, 2023
No longer a bystander
No longer a bystander
November 29, 2023
Bring more awareness to seasonal depression
Bring more awareness to seasonal depression
November 4, 2023
[GOOD QUESTION] How do you start great conversations?
[GOOD QUESTION] How do you start great conversations?
May 31, 2025
Sanneh Foundation founder, Toney Sanneh
AmeriCorps cuts hit close to home at Sanneh Foundation
May 30, 2025
Food dyes: a rainbow of health risks
Food dyes: a rainbow of health risks
May 29, 2025
EXTRA ENJOYMENT. Summer camps, such as the French program at Concordia Language Villages that sophomore Asha Peckosh took part in last year, offer social connections and engagement during the break. “I made some really good friends, I’m still super close with all of them,” Peckosh said. (Reprinted with permission: Concordia College)
Summer programs bring curiosity, connection
May 28, 2025
NEW HOMES. Over a million Southeast Asian refugees were resettled in the U.S., starting in 1975. After 50 years, the communities have grown. New generations look back in order to move forward.
Looking back and moving forward: celebrating 50 years of Southeast Asians in America
May 27, 2025
GOLDEN HOUR. Henry is pictured in Canada fishing in the sunrise.
Hook. Line. Sinker. Let’s talk fishing 101
June 2, 2025
Blind Havoc: a clothing brand made to spread positivity
Blind Havoc: a clothing brand made to spread positivity
May 30, 2025
COLD BUT DELICIOUS. As summer nears, it is time to relieve stress with a frozen treat. But where to go? Here are some St. Paul favorites.
St. Paul scoops: ice cream picks to sweeten the summer
May 30, 2025
DOUBLE TROUBLE: Robert Pattison stars in twin roles in "Mickey 17", a choice that has polarized viewers.
[OFF-SCREEN WITH OSTREM] ‘Mickey 17’ splits audiences with blunt politics and bold direction
May 29, 2025
GRAND GUITAR. Junior Josh Melchert plays the guitar as part of the Juan-Miguel Quartet’s performance at the cabaret concert April 16.
Melchert speaks fluent guitar
May 28, 2025
DOUBLE TROUBLE: Robert Pattison stars in twin roles in "Mickey 17", a choice that has polarized viewers.
[OFF-SCREEN WITH OSTREM] ‘Mickey 17’ splits audiences with blunt politics and bold direction
May 29, 2025
BODY SWAP. When a woman at a Chinese restaurant gives Anna and Tess a magical fortune cookie, they wake up and realize Anna is now in her mom’s body, while Tess is stuck as a teenager. (Screen capture: Freaky Friday (2003) trailer)
[MOVIE REVIEW] Freakier Friday is coming: get ready with Freaky Friday now
May 23, 2025
Health 101: Netflix offers a variety of shows focused on physical and mental well-being
Health 101: Netflix offers a variety of shows focused on physical and mental well-being
May 21, 2025
STAR PERFORMANCE. Wilson's role as one of the play's main characters was a standout of the show.
[THEATER REVIEW] Captivating performances and a Grecian tale make Hadestown unforgettable
May 20, 2025
STARRING IN "SINNERS." Michael B. Jordan stars in dual roles in his fifth project with writer-director Ryan Coogler. (Fair use image from Warner Bros. Press Release).
[OFF-SCREEN WITH OSTREM] Sinners revives original genre filmmaking in a barren movie landscape
May 15, 2025
SENIOR JACOB COLTON LAUNCHES INTO A SERVE DURING DOUBLES PLAY. Colton, partnering with Ben Macedo , brought focus and finesse to the court as they captured the Section 4A doubles title.
Spartans sweep Section 4A: titles for Arvidson, Wang/Seneratna, Colton/Macedo, Schumacher
May 27, 2025
OFF-SEASON, ON POINT. Athletes at SPA train in the off-season by participating in camps around MN. (Illustration by Naomi Zins using Canva Elements)
Game Prep: Students who do training camps in the off-season
May 23, 2025
ALMOST THERE. Sophomore Langston Thompson drives his arm as he aims for the finish line. He finished first in his 200 meter heat.
Cold weather, hot performances: track and field shines at conference championships
May 19, 2025
ROW, ROW, ROW. Junior Carsten Bauer rows in the doubles race at last year's USA U-17 Nationals in Sarasota, Florida. (Submitted Photo: Carsten Bauer)
Row to the occasion: Bauer finds community, accomplishment in competitive rowing
May 12, 2025
FIRE FENCING. Junior Howard Huelster talks to his teammates before he competes. Photo from SPA SmugMug.
Howard Huelster inspires the next generation of fencers by volunteering
May 11, 2025
WINGS OUT. Gjerde flies through the water, completing the first 25 yards out of 100 in her event.
Adele Gjerde shines at state for her final high school swim meet
November 17, 2024
ITS OFFICIAL. Sawyer Bollinger Danielson signs her National Letter of Intent to play Division One soccer at the University of Minnesota.
Signing Day: Sawyer Bollinger Danielson commits to the University of Minnesota
November 15, 2024
STATE BOUND. Avi Coleman dives into the water and secures her place on and the state competition.
Sparks athletes swim to state in the 6AA section meet
November 10, 2024
KEEP ON GOING. Spark Swimmers compete to beat their competitors.
Sparks swim and dive dominates at final regular season meet
November 7, 2024
SYNC. All of the swimmers dive in sync into the water.
Sparks boast PR bonanza at conference
November 4, 2024
TIP-IN. Sophomore Miles Vogenthaler tips the ball while jumping up.
Boys basketball emerges victorious over Nova in evenly-matched section quarterfinal
March 9, 2025
CONGRATS. Senior Inga Wing and Junior Maren Overgaard are congratulated after they finish their race. (Photo submitted by Maren Overgaard)
Champions. Overgaard and Wing win Nordic relay at state meet
March 4, 2025
GLIDE. Townley tucks to gain speed on a downhill portion of the course. Photo submitted by Helen Townley.
Dartmouth commit Helen Townley reflects on a childhood shaped by Nordic skiing
March 3, 2025
DANGLES. Freshman Max George takes the puck down the ice around a Johnson player.
Spartan hockey and St. Paul Johnson Governors collaborate to support leukemia patient
February 19, 2025
WALK. Spectators walking through the park trying to find the perfect spot to watch the racers.
Nordic slides from sections to state
February 13, 2025
SENIOR JACOB COLTON LAUNCHES INTO A SERVE DURING DOUBLES PLAY. Colton, partnering with Ben Macedo , brought focus and finesse to the court as they captured the Section 4A doubles title.
Spartans sweep Section 4A: titles for Arvidson, Wang/Seneratna, Colton/Macedo, Schumacher
May 27, 2025
ALMOST THERE. Sophomore Langston Thompson drives his arm as he aims for the finish line. He finished first in his 200 meter heat.
Cold weather, hot performances: track and field shines at conference championships
May 19, 2025
Coach Pope and junior Josh Melchert discuss how excited they are for the new season
Hole in one: boys golf use competition with some fun as they head into first matches
May 9, 2025
JUMP FOR IT! Captain Jesse Wussler launches into the air, battling gravity for a high-flying disc midair. “Winning the Rookie of the Year Award, freshman year, that's pretty cool,” he said, reflecting on his favorite ultimate frisbee memory.
Catch this: how Spartan Ultimate Frisbee keeps redefining school sports
May 8, 2025
READY, STEADY, SWING: Captain Helen Frost went up to bat and swung far. Although she ended up being tagged at first base, she continued to make multiple other impressive swings and defensive plays for the Redhawks.
Redhawks softball co-op stays energetic through a tough season
May 7, 2025
OBLIVIOUS OPHELIA. Sophomore Ella Barlow acts out Act Four, Scene Five of Hamlet with her groupmates.
Freshmen and sophomores reimagine ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Hamlet’
May 26, 2025
Behind the scenes: the road to Hadestown
Behind the scenes: the road to Hadestown
May 23, 2025
Huxley Westemeier wrangles AI, wins $10,250 in cash and a full trip to Taiwan at ISEF
Huxley Westemeier wrangles AI, wins $10,250 in cash and a full trip to Taiwan at ISEF
May 22, 2025
Sophie Ferrer talks about the different math classes.
[SPARTAN TAKES] Episode #2: Discussing Math with Sophie Ferrer
May 21, 2025
Soren Johnson shares his hot take.
[SPARTAN TAKES] Episode #1: Talking Chicken with Soren
May 17, 2025
OBLIVIOUS OPHELIA. Sophomore Ella Barlow acts out Act Four, Scene Five of Hamlet with her groupmates.
Freshmen and sophomores reimagine ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Hamlet’
May 26, 2025
MAKE IT COUNT. Spending money when out with friends is not a requirement, though it can seem like the easiest option. However, there are a variety of ways. One can participate in meaningful activities with friends without taking out the wallet. (Made with Canva elements: Movie Clapperboard Vector by pixabay, Walking by Icons8, Skateboard Icon by ahmadwil, Volleyball by grmarc)
Without the wallet: Spending time with friends does not always require money
May 12, 2025
[STORY BEHIND THE STORY] Leading with laughter and late nights: Managing Editor Juan Miguel Adams explains how to maintain positive staff culture
[STORY BEHIND THE STORY] Leading with laughter and late nights: Managing Editor Juan Miguel Adams explains how to maintain positive staff culture
May 8, 2025
PRECIOUS MEMORIES. Junior Leah Passe reflects on her earliest childhood memories. "I think I remember feeling excited to start actually learning in school and not just in preschool anymore. And I don't think it has a very like, necessarily positive or negative connotation to it. I think I just remember it happening, and I remember being excited," said Passe. (Photos submitted by Leah Passe, graphic made by Thomas Chen)
How childhood memories shape who we are
April 15, 2025
[STORY BEHIND THE STORY] Social Media Manager Mariam Malik stops those Spartans
[STORY BEHIND THE STORY] Social Media Manager Mariam Malik stops those Spartans
April 13, 2025
Behind the scenes: the road to Hadestown
Behind the scenes: the road to Hadestown
May 23, 2025
Huxley Westemeier wrangles AI, wins $10,250 in cash and a full trip to Taiwan at ISEF
Huxley Westemeier wrangles AI, wins $10,250 in cash and a full trip to Taiwan at ISEF
May 22, 2025
Soren Johnson shares his hot take.
[SPARTAN TAKES] Episode #1: Talking Chicken with Soren
May 17, 2025
Shifting spaces: how common areas, and the changing of them, affect our community
Shifting spaces: how common areas, and the changing of them, affect our community
May 11, 2025
Charlie Zakaib covers all bases at Target Field
Charlie Zakaib covers all bases at Target Field
April 29, 2025
May 2025 Issue
May 28, 2025
April 2025 Issue
April 22, 2025
March 2025 Issue
March 11, 2025
February 2025 Issue
February 11, 2025
January 2025 Issue
January 16, 2025
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
Annika Kim

Annika Kim, Mixed Media Editor

Annika Kim (she/her) sets a goal to produce one animated short film per year. She loves learning how to use new programs to make different forms of art, and is constantly amazed by people who create solo with limited resources. Her favorite activity when watching a movie is to overanalyze the deeper meaning behind the camera angles and color schemes of the shots.

Kim is the Mixed Media editor for The Rubicon. She can be reached at [email protected].

All content by Annika Kim
GRAND GUITAR. Junior Josh Melchert plays the guitar as part of the Juan-Miguel Quartet’s performance at the cabaret concert April 16.

Melchert speaks fluent guitar

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
May 28, 2025
HUNTING HONORS. Success plays a central role in learning. However, stepping away from the “success above all else” mindset can create new opportunities for development.

[Photo] Embrace failure and reject achievement culture to grow

The Rubicon Staff
May 24, 2025
BUSINESS, PEOPLE, BOYCOTT. Boycotts have been used as a sign of protest, a shout for corporate change, but could it also be hurting people too?

A question for the ages: to boycott or not to boycott

Peter Ostrem and Annika Kim
May 5, 2025
DISCUSSING DISCOMFORT. The use of trigger warnings in daily life and media can spur mixed reactions. Some view the warnings as preventing conversations about controversial subjects, while others see them as necessary to promote safety and allow people to choose the content with which they engage.

[Photo] [2 SIDES, 1 ISSUE] Trigger warnings: stifling or necessary?

Eli Perry and Chloe Kovarik
April 27, 2025
EVERYONE HAS A RIGHT. Whether you are a citizen or not, these recent ICE arrests of international university students show that this is an attack on citizens' rights as well.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] ICE entering universities affects everyone

RubicOnline Staff
April 12, 2025
MAKE A CHANGE. There is so much to be thankful for and so many people to thank, so let’s replace complaining with thankfulness.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Drop the attitude for gratitude

RubicOnline Staff
March 18, 2025
CULTIVATING COMPASSION. SASH co-leader Cerena Karmaliani informs the community on sexual harassment statistics before guiding them through hypothetical reporting scenarios. The resources, acquired through a conference at the Sexual Violence Center, are available to all students.

SASH-led assembly calls attention to harassment culture

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
March 12, 2025
SEEKING A STATEMENT. The SPA administration has not yet addressed President Donald Trump’s series of anti-DEI executive orders, leaving the community uncertain about the school’s stance. A transparent statement from the school would clarify that diversity remains a value of the community and will be protected at SPA.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Reaffirm commitment to diversity to uphold values

The Rubicon Staff
March 9, 2025
PERSONAL POLITICS. Current events are on the minds of many in the community, making it important that students have space to share their thoughts. Implementing these conversations into class time would provide a natural and comfortable outlet for discussion.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Current events discussions belong in the classroom

The Rubicon Staff
February 15, 2025
UNTOLD STORIES. Realities of the LA fires are buried under misinformation and celebrity stories. Let's shift more attention to those heavily impacted.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Substance over sensation: point the camera where it matters

RubicOnline Staff
January 27, 2025
INPUT IGNORED. The implementation of the new phone-free policy, despite overwhelmingly negative feedback from students, has contributed to a loss of trust in the administration. In order to repair this relationship, the administration must show that they value student voices and use the data collected in surveys when considering policies.

[Photo] Top five opinion stories of 2024

RubicOnline Staff
January 10, 2025
INPUT IGNORED. The implementation of the new phone-free policy, despite overwhelmingly negative feedback from students, has contributed to a loss of trust in the administration. In order to repair this relationship, the administration must show that they value student voices and use the data collected in surveys when considering policies.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Phone policy reveals disregard of student input, lack of trust in admin

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 2024
BRAIN BOOST. Receiving a compliment activates the same areas of the brain as receiving a reward.

[Photo] Should I say something positive? Yes.

Sonia Kharbanda, The Rubicon
November 25, 2024
UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT. A report done as a part of the UCLA Entertainment and Media Research Initiative found people of color make up less than half of the staff and cast in movies and TV. Lack of representation when creating any type of media leads to more exaggerated stereotypes and exclusion of marginalized communities. (Information: UCLA Social Sciences)

[Photo] How micro- and macro-aggressions impact experience

November 21, 2024
OMITTED OUTLOOK. The new strategic planning committee to reimagine the athletic department has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, but does not include any current student-athletes. Students have a valuable perspective to add to the discussions from their firsthand experience with school facilities, teams and coaches.

[Photo] Include students in athletics strategic planning

Sam Galarneault, The Rubicon
December 5, 2024
ANALYSIS WITH AN AGENDA. In the midst of No-phone-vember and following an assembly where students were presented slideshows of data, many feel the graphs misrepresented the student survey responses.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Clear as mud: a call for data transparency

RubicOnline Staff
November 16, 2024
Global stakes: foreign policy is a critical issue this election

Global stakes: foreign policy is a critical issue this election

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
November 6, 2024
SISTERS IGNITE EXCITEMENT. Coaches and sisters Aileen and Rycke Guiney lead the girls varsity soccer team with energy and excitement as they fight for another win.

Empowering female voice in athletics

Lina Abid, The Rubicon
September 6, 2024
270 TO WIN. States that are solidly blue are predicted to vote democrat, while states solidly red vote republican. The yellow states are the ones up for grabs.

[Photo] How does an age-old system hold up in a modern election?

Amanda Hsu, The Rubicon
November 6, 2024
LOOK AROUND. Attending cultural events means living the value of community and is an opportunity to learn about your peers.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Create time to show up for cultural events

RubicOnline Staff
October 31, 2024
ACCOMMODATIONS, NOT ADVANTAGES. Neurodivergence is often misunderstood in the learning environment. Students may contribute intentionally or unintentionally to this culture by stigmatizing students who use extended time or other arrangements.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Misunderstood, stigmatized: more neurodivergence awareness needed

The Rubicon Staff
October 29, 2024
Ninth graders adjusted to new routines and expectations at the start of the school year. But for some upperclassmen, the time is right to share insight for those who were in their shoes. "…I think it’s important to remember that not everything is that big of a deal," junior Devi Nelson said.

[Photo] Been there, done that: a little mid-semester advice for ninth graders

Johanna Pierach, The Rubicon
October 21, 2024
WILLKOMMEN. Seventeen students from the Heisenberg Gymnasium in Hamburg spent two weeks with host families in the Twin Cities from Sept. 30-Oct. 11. They will host SPA German students in June. (Submitted photo Rachel Ruddick)

Meet the exchange students

The Rubicon Staff and RubicOnline Staff
October 10, 2024
CAMPAIGNING IN STYLE. Hanna poses for photo in gear with other interns. Hanna said “It can seem scary to get involved in politics, but you can make a big difference.”

Hanna dives into the world of local politics with McCollum

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
October 5, 2024
AFTERNOON FUN. Young students enjoy the variety of activities the carnival has to offer, from the inflatable attractions to the spartan colored thunder sticks.

[HOCO Day 5] Together again: K-12 comes together for Homecoming Carnival

Annika Kim and Lina Abid
September 27, 2024
HELPFUL HABITS. Take the beginning of the school year as an opportunity to establish consistent routines, such as going to bed at the same time every night.

[Photo] Start the school year off right with healthy habits

Sam Galarneault, The Rubicon
September 26, 2024
INSPIRE ACTION. Land Acknowledgments serve to spread awareness about the Indigenous communities that inhabited this land and remind listeners of Indigenous peoples’ ongoing presence. Students have a responsibility to take these Land Acknowledgments seriously and advocate for further restorative actions.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Land Acknowledgments are more than just empty words

The Rubicon Staff
September 24, 2024
COMMUNITY VALUES. Administrators, teachers and students should put in the work to reflect the new five school values: community, purpose, kindness, excellence and belonging.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Let the new values shape your heart and mind

RubicOnline Staff
September 25, 2024
VALUES REIMAGINED. The school’s six core values are: achievement, accountability, community, resilience, inventiveness, and passion. These can remain important guiding principles for current students and alumni/ae of the school; they take on new meaning but are still applicable for graduates’ next journeys.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Packing up the school’s greatest gifts doesn’t require a backpack

The Rubicon Staff
May 28, 2024
PROTESTING FOR GENERATIONS. Protests are disrupting and attention catching. That is why it is a powerful tool for change that can be used by everyone, including students.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Bring back student led protests

RubicOnline Staff
May 23, 2024
[OPINION] Love books? Shop local.

[OPINION] Love books? Shop local.

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
May 20, 2024
MINNESOTA ACTS. A ruling by the 8th Circuit of the US Court of Appeals has removed the right to sue against discriminatory policies under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. “It sounds like what the legislature is doing is saying that this could be a problem and we want to get ahead of it,” said US history teacher Jon Peterson on Minnesota’s decision to update the Minnesota Voting Rights Act. (PUBLIC DOMAIN IMAGE: Andrew VonBank, MN House of Representatives Chief Photographer)

Voting Rights Act aims to protect “freedom to vote”

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
May 2, 2024
SIMPLE STEPS. Although conversations around diversity training can be difficult, nothing will be gained if no one participates.

DIVERSE DIRECTIONS. Students are given a wide range of opportunities to engage in diversity-related programming at school. Now, to combat complaints that diversity training isn’t engaging enough, it’s time to apply what they’ve learned.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] To make diversity training meaningful, engage when it’s hard

The Rubicon Staff
April 30, 2024
BREAK FREE from your devices and cut your screen time down to better engage with your surroundings.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Put down the phone

RubicOnline Staff
April 16, 2024
START CLEANING using different important aspects of relationships to properly evaluate connections.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Spring clean your relationships

RubicOnline Staff
March 14, 2024
PRECOCIOUS PRETEENS. Kids that wander into social media spaces curated for older people may end up imitating the trends they find. But this phenomenon isn’t completely innocent — it often ends up rushing their childhoods.

[Photo] Kids should to take a step back from consumerism and societal trends

Amanda Hsu, The Rubicon
March 14, 2024
MISSING IN ACTION. Nowadays, disengaging from social obligations is easier than ever before. Societal norms in the post-pandemic era have shifted, and for many, socialization is no longer an easy, casual routine. Reengagement, both in and outside of school, is crucial to rebuilding a sense of community.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Made plans? Be there.

The Rubicon Staff
March 13, 2024
RECOVERY. Besides resting physical therapy is crucial in the road of recovery. Sophomore Sona Jain, who tore her ACL, said, "I always thought about what I need to accomplish first. [What I said to myself] during rehabilitation not only gave me a good mindset, but boosted my confidence."

[Photo] Crutching back into playing shape

Annie Zhang, The Rubicon
March 11, 2024
EGG-CELLENT COLLECTION. Collections can be made up of anything, not just stereotypical items like stamps or figurines. These stuffed eggs are a cute example.

Collecting soothes the soul and brings people together

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
February 29, 2024
EXPLORE BLACK HISTORY MONTH and discover different paths to take for community engagement.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Black History Month: go beyond history

RubicOnline Staff
February 27, 2024
DREAM TEAM. Relay team of junior Inga Wing and freshman Eleanor Mody ski side by side at the state Nordic meet. The team qualified for state with their relay getting first in sections. Mody said, “It made me happy to see the season finally come together.” SUBMITTED PHOTO: Inga Wing

Nordic glides to state despite poor training conditions all season

Annika Kim, Illustrator
February 17, 2024
DIAGNOSIS DELUGE. TikTok mental health creators have undoubtedly helped to reduce the stigma around having mental health conditions. However, the resulting wave of self-diagnoses has been harmful for many others.

[Photo] TikTok as therapy? No thanks.

McKinley Garner, The Rubicon
February 14, 2024
I CARE. Disscussions between peers is a vital aspect of speakers coming to SPA.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Contribute meaningfully to assemblies and discussions

RubicOnline Staff
February 2, 2024
THE STAGE IS SET. Lights up and sound set, freshman Ava Doody sits at the tech table during a run through of the one-acts on Thursday night. As a member of the tech crew, she said “You're still part of it. But you aren't like out on the stage in front of like 400 people.” The competition show and two student directed one-acts will be performed Jan. 26 on the Huss Stage at 7. p.m.

[Photo] One acts bring video games, musical ditties and Greek frogs to the stage

Georgia Ross, Chief Visual Editor
January 26, 2024
SLINGING WORDS. Every day, students find themselves in academic and non-academic settings where there’s pressure to share strong opinions, even if they feel uninformed on the subject. Dare to resist that pressure and listen first.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Facts over opinions: take time to learn before speaking out

The Rubicon Staff
December 19, 2023
LOW NUMBERS. Rates of COVID remain low in Minnesota, as do booster vaccination rates. INFORMATION: Minnesota Department of Heath

Low COVID-19 vaccination participation aligns with low infection rates

Annika Kim, The Rubicon
November 30, 2023
QUIET STUDY. It might sound appealing to study with music, podcasts, and videos in the background, but it’s not good for focus. Instead, it’s better to work in a quiet, calm environment. “Humans are inherently horrible multitaskers, so trying to do more than one thing at once will drag down productivity,” Ostrem writes.

[Photo] Keep your focus on staying focused

Peter Ostrem, The Rubicon
November 28, 2023
THINK TWICE. Although it might sound smart to experiment with drugs and alcohol, the data suggest otherwise.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Experimenting? Reconsider.

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 2023
THE TIME IS NOW. SPA must create a climate policy that dramatically reduces emissions to meet the urgency of this moment and be an example to students, families, and peer institutions.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] SPA must make climate action a priority

RubicOnline Staff
November 13, 2023
PRIME TIME. Deion Sanders more famously known for his unique nickname “Coach Prime” after his prime coaching and primed players. Junior Ezra Straub said, “He knows what he’s doing.” ILLUSTRATION: Annika Kim

[Photo] Deion Sanders changes the game for college football

Olympia Wolff, The Rubicon
October 30, 2023
ASSESSING ACHIEVEMENT. The survey sent to all students, families, and faculty should inspire individuals to define excellence for themselves while respecting how others strive to be "excellent."

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] What is excellence?

RubicOnline Staff
October 13, 2023
PURSUING PASSION. Although their projects are set to take weeks to months, the students feel that they will not lose interest due to their passion.

Curiosity fuels long-term projects

Annika Kim and Lucy Thomas
October 4, 2023
environment 1

STAYING SAFE. Community Partnership Month aims to inform students about the many safety risks that exist at school. Since there have been student concerns about a lack of safety awareness, this month will be the perfect time to dial in and have those important conversations.

[Photo] Let’s take partnership seriously this month

Annie Zhang, The Rubicon
September 28, 2023
FACE TO FACE. Affinity groups are not only a good way to meet people that share the same identity, but also a good way to discover how different those people can be. Additionally, by engaging in a space where it’s not necessary to explain the nuances of identity, it’s possible to make connections based on a deep mutual understanding.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Affinity groups create safe spaces for inclusion and empowerment

The Rubicon Staff
September 28, 2023
As the Spanish exchange program resumes for the first time since pre-covid, the SPA community should welcome visiting students with intention and warmth.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Welcome Colegio Malvar students with open hearts and minds

RubicOnline Staff
September 14, 2023
OUTSIDE THE BOX. Engaging in classroom activities that aren’t static doesn’t automatically mean students will be distracted or unproductive. Using the opportunity to expand learning content outside the classroom has many benefits that can improve engagement, focus, and health.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Promote healthy habits by incorporating movement in class

The Rubicon Staff
March 7, 2023
WHERE TO DRAW THE LINE. After a Hamline University professor was dismissed for showing a painting depicting the Muslim prophet Muhammad, some are questioning whether dismissal was the right choice.

[Photo] Hamline under fire for dismissing professor

Annie Zhang, The Rubicon
February 2, 2023
BALANCING ACT. As teenagers grow older, it becomes increasingly more difficult to juggle responsibilities and mistakes are taken more seriously. However, parents shouldn’t take this as a reason to restrict their children’s freedom; instead, having more responsibilities is an opportunity to demonstrate independence and self-management skills.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Encourage teenage independence

The Rubicon Staff
October 25, 2022
ACTIVE AUDIENCE. An increased administrative presence in the community has a clear impact on fostering positive relationships with the student body. While a greater involvement may feel unfamiliar, students should put in the same amount of effort to appreciate and acknowledge the administration’s attention to student voices and decisions.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] New admin sets new tone. Let’s meet their energy.

The Rubicon Staff
September 27, 2022
GIVE BACK. An increased demand for volunteers creates opportunities to do community work in diverse avenues. Embrace volunteering and viewing it as a way to help others is key to being genuine about it. While volunteering may be done with different motivations, the end goal of serving the community remains the same.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Treat volunteering as a chance to grow

The Rubicon Staff
May 24, 2022
There are a few essentials for concerts including: a phone, wallet, bag, portable charger, water bottle, and earplugs.

[Photo] Summer concert tips for beginners

Claire Kim, The Rubicon
May 26, 2022
Risk-taking is intrinsically tied to decision-making. Due to the biological stage of development in teens’ brains, adolescents go through the decision-making process differently than adults—driven more by the emotional and reactive parts of the brain than the thoughtful and logical areas of the brain.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Take more risks this summer

RubicOnline Staff
May 20, 2022
TO THE BIG SCREEN. All of the musical sequences in Encanto go through a creative process; the storyboarding stage, color keys to set the tone, and then animated for the final product.

[BOOK REVIEW] The book is better: check out The Art of Encanto

Annika Kim, Staff Writer
April 5, 2022
It's not worth enabling cookies that may jeopardize personal information and credit data.

Don’t collect too many cookies

Annika Kim, Staff Writer
March 9, 2022
YES WE CAN. Student activism and voluneering will help close the achievement gap, but only if there are structures put in place at a legislative level by voting adults that create the conditions for success.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Work to close the achievement gap

The Rubicon Staff
March 9, 2022

[WINS AND LOSSES] Learning to fence

Annika Kim, Staff Writer
February 25, 2022
TRIPLE SELF-PORTRAIT. Art is an essential part of life. Take the time to support local arts and keep your community vibrant.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Engage with your community: support local artists

Rubicon Staff
February 26, 2022
Wins and Losses is a podcast produced by Staff Writers in Writing for Publication.

[Photo] [WINS AND LOSSES] Baseball with Boden Strafelda

March 12, 2022
Sia recommends going to the Forever 21 for shoes. “I really like them.”

[Photo] Walk a day in our shoes

Team Story, Staff Writers
December 14, 2021
The information regarding sex and gender have been washed together and interchanged. This mix is harmful to everyone, including people who identify with traditional binary genders.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] School policy and practice on gender creates a strong model for the broader world

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
December 14, 2021
Kim Annika Op

OUT-OF-CLASS. All teachers and students enjoy participating in various activities. Getting to know teachers' interests, and sharing out of school experiences, can help develop meaningful relationships beyond academics.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Get to know teachers as people

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 2021
VACCINATING MINNESOTA. The CDC recommends those 65 and older as well as those with underlying medical conditions get the Pfizer-BioNTech booster shot.

Boosters provide extra protection for some; youth wait for vaccine

Annika Kim, Staff Writer
October 26, 2021
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