The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
CONTRIBUTING TO THE AMERICAN TAPESTRY. APAICS holds a convention every year during May, AANHPI Heritage Month. This year, the conference name is Woven Together: Strength in Community.
APAICS empowers AANHPI civic engagement
May 17, 2025
TALENTED TRIO. Juniors Roman Farley and Johann DeVriese entertain the crowd with a short podcast while junior Ethan He draws up a caricature of Farley.
Talent show brings in oohs and aahs
May 16, 2025
FREE SPIRIT. Rising Editor in Chief Sonia Kharbanda (center) works with incoming editors in the publications room.
Sonia Kharbanda named Free Spirit Scholar, will travel to D.C. for journalism conference
May 14, 2025
Election Results: elected / selected groups
Election Results: elected / selected groups
May 14, 2025
Junior Fletcher Coblentz prepares to dump the freezing water onto his younger brothers head.
Revamped Ice Bucket Challenge makes headlines
May 12, 2025
START EARLY. Learning about money (and putting it in the right places) early is a game-changer for financial success.
SPA doesn’t teach financial literacy, but your future won’t wait for a lesson plan
May 20, 2025
Pollution seeks into the ecosystem, staining the clear lakes and drinkable waters.
Protect the boundary waters from drilling
May 19, 2025
NEVER ENOUGH. Grades create a toxic cycle that detract from the whole purpose of education: learning. (Image made on Canva using Realistic Flying Pages by klyaksun, and Sleeping Student while Studying by Headeartands)
Pervasive toxicity: today’s grading system undermines learning
May 15, 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
NATURES BENEFIT. Spending time outdoors this spring will greatly benefit overall mood. (Illustration by Audrey Jansen using Canva elements)
Spending time outdoors boosts mental well-being
May 12, 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
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.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Reaffirm commitment to diversity to uphold values
March 9, 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
The Sift is a weekly The Rubicon opinions column focused on the impacts and implications of new technologies.
The Nintendo Switch 2: Worth the Wait?
April 11, 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
TACO 'BOUT DELICIOUS. El Coronel serving up food for locals in Stillwater last summer. (Photo submitted by Emilio Candia)
Taco ’bout this: Inside Taher chef Emilio Candia’s food truck
May 19, 2025
THE USUALS. Aldegundo Brenneman, Anneli Wilson, Gavin Luethold, and Emma Tan enjoy nice warm cups of coffee. This group is part of 6-7 people who consistenly participate in the clubs.
Coffee and Conversations fosters discussion and camaraderie
May 14, 2025
PERFECT HOLE IN ONE. Sophomore Stella Hunter enjoyed this trip in many ways from being surrounded by Indigenous culture to enjoying the beautiful weather of Albuquerque at Arroyo del Oak Golf Course. When describing what experiencing a powwow is like Hunter commented: “It's probably like any other, theater event. You have your spectators, and then you have like the main act, which is the dancing. Just be respectful, don't judge, because this is something that's very important to us. If you ever want to go to a powwow, you totally should. It doesn't matter if you're Native or not.” (Photo submitted by Stella Hunter)
Hunter travels to North America’s largest powwow
May 13, 2025
ALL SMILES FOR SCIENCE. Junior Shefali Meagher poses in front of a JSHS banner in her presentation attire. (Photo submitted by Shefali Meagher)
STEM standout: Shefali Meagher attends JSHS
May 12, 2025
BUNNY PICS. The spirit of Easter in full display as a child poses with the Easter bunny.
Egg-speriencing Easter in different households
April 29, 2025
DIFFERENT COLORS. In Kim's short film, she explores the pressure to only show aspects of ones personality that will "fit in". She breaks down this mindset in "A Different Frame of Mind". (Submitted by Annika Kim)
A Different Frame of Mind: Kim’s short film stuns
May 19, 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
QUICK AND EASY: Due Focacceria is quick casual cafe that is only a minute walk from school.
Must-go’s: the best walkable bites from school
May 14, 2025
CLASS BOND. A group of juniors in the same Human Physiology class pose together in their prom outfits (Submitted photo from Luwam Mebrahtu).
Prom fashion sees new trends and old norms
May 13, 2025
STUDY IN BLUE. The transitioning artwork behind Dacus is a strengthening supplement to the music. At one point, six individual portraits, each depicting a different member of the band, project brightly in the dim background.
Dacus takes the audience from darkness to light
May 12, 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
QUICK AND EASY: Due Focacceria is quick casual cafe that is only a minute walk from school.
Must-go’s: the best walkable bites from school
May 14, 2025
STUDY IN BLUE. The transitioning artwork behind Dacus is a strengthening supplement to the music. At one point, six individual portraits, each depicting a different member of the band, project brightly in the dim background.
Dacus takes the audience from darkness to light
May 12, 2025
A LOCAL FAVORITE. Located in South Minneapolis, Tacos El Kevin serves traditional Mexican food and drinks.
[AROUND TOWN] Tacos El Kevin delivers bold flavors and authentic atmosphere
May 5, 2025
NEW BUSINESS. Recently opened at the end of 2024, Big Island Poke lies at 74 Snelling Avenue, just minutes from SPA's Randolph campus.
[FOOD REVIEW] Big Island Poke offers a casual eating experience while maintaining quality
April 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
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
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
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
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
HIGH-FIVES. Captain Ben Macedo and freshmen Luca Kempcke hype each other up after a well-won point. Against Orono, all of the doubles players won, whereas all the singles lost, resulting in a 3-4 loss. “It was the same last year too,” said sophomore Gavin Leuthold.
Boys tennis season underway with eyes on continued success
May 6, 2025
Soren Johnson shares his hot take.
[SPARTAN TAKES] Episode #1: Talking Chicken with Soren
May 17, 2025
WAY DOWN. The cast is journeying underground this weekend. Submitted image: poster by Anneli Wilson
[QUIZ] Which Hadestown character are you?
May 16, 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
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
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
[TRENDING] Ep. 5 Influenced or influencer? Students respond
[TRENDING] Ep. 5 Influenced or influencer? Students respond
March 14, 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
Athletes build strength in the weight room
Athletes build strength in the weight room
April 24, 2025
Spring showers bring ribbon roses: DIY with Salma Blagui
Spring showers bring ribbon roses: DIY with Salma Blagui
April 21, 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
November 2024 Issue
November 21, 2024
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

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

The Rubicon
All content by The Rubicon Staff
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

The Rubicon Staff
April 22, 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.

[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.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Current events discussions belong in the classroom

The Rubicon Staff
February 15, 2025

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Ignored identity: socioeconomic diversity is worth a conversation

The Rubicon Staff
January 22, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
October 29, 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
VARIETY. Juniors Luwam Mebrahtu and Lilly Spurgeon and seniors Lucy Thomas and Olympia Wolff (left to right) display their varying outfits for the day. Mebrahtu went for a simple SPA sweatshirt, Spurgeon chose a flashy yellow skirt, while Thomas and Wolff wore their overalls.

[HOCO] Dress up day-by-day

RubicOnline Staff, The Rubicon Staff, and Ibid Staff
September 27, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
September 24, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
May 28, 2024
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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
April 30, 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.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Made plans? Be there.

The Rubicon Staff
March 13, 2024
REMEMBERING MS. JENN. Jennifer Farnham, known as Ms. Jenn, inspired generations of students with her dedication to education and inclusivity. She joined the SPA community in 1998 and taught for over 25 years. “Her voracious passion for not only the subject but teaching imprinted on me,” a former student of Ms. Jenn’s math class said.

[REMEMBERING JENNIFER FARNHAM] Beloved educator leaves legacy of belonging and compassion

The Rubicon Staff
March 11, 2024
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Revamping clubs structure offers potential to strengthen community

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Revamping clubs structure offers potential to strengthen community

The Rubicon Staff
February 20, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
December 19, 2023
THINK TWICE. Although it might sound smart to experiment with drugs and alcohol, the data suggest otherwise.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Experimenting? Reconsider.

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 2023
NO GIRLS INVOLVED. The relative lack of female-identifying students in STEM extracurriculars can make them feel like boys’ clubs. It’s not that girls aren’t interested in these activities; instead, they might not be included to the same degree when they want to participate, or they might be afraid to be the only one.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Girls in STEM deserve our support

The Rubicon Staff
October 31, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
September 28, 2023
LIAR LIAR. Politicians need to be held to a higher standard. They currently take advantage of the political system by flaunting their money and power. This shouldn’t be the basis of our democracy; instead, it’s crucial for politicians to take accountability for their actions in order to make the United States a safer place to live in.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Hold the privileged accountable for an ethical political environment

The Rubicon Staff
May 30, 2023
FACE TO FACE. Although it can be easier to tell uninvolved people about a hurtful situation, discussing the issue directly with the person involved will help resolve the issue in a more timely manner. Communication is a crucial part of both maintaing relationships and educating others about their actions, even if they’re aren’t a close friend.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Embracing confrontation leads to positive change and growth

The Rubicon Staff
April 28, 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.

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

The Rubicon Staff
March 7, 2023
MAKING NEWS. Utilizing news sources is a convenient way to make classroom content more relevant and to start conversations about current events. Both teachers and students can contribute to incorporating news media into school spaces by bringing them into classes, clubs and student groups, and daily conversations.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] It is time to learn about current events in school

The Rubicon Staff
January 31, 2023

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Oppression is not a competition: recognize privilege to create change

The Rubicon Staff
December 7, 2022
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.

[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.

[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.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Treat volunteering as a chance to grow

The Rubicon Staff
May 24, 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.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Work to close the achievement gap

The Rubicon Staff
March 9, 2022
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.

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

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
December 14, 2021
adele infographic

[Photo] After six years, fans are ready to welcome Adele’s new album

Milkii Tigro, The Rubicon
December 4, 2021
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.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Get to know teachers as people

The Rubicon Staff
November 30, 2021
Five of the best makeup products for this fall season include warmer tones.

[Photo] Cosmetic expression: both genderless and genderful

Eve Sampsell-Jones, The Rubicon
November 4, 2021
IT’S FINE, IT’S NOT COVID. Classmates experience discomfort when students show up with an illness, and with low immunity viruses spread quickly. Students should stay home if they are not feeling well.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Fever? Cough? Aches? Stay home.

The Rubicon Staff
October 26, 2021
Fall season snapshot: A-Z

Fall season snapshot: A-Z

The Rubicon Staff
September 28, 2021
Mindfulness activities, though well intentioned, can do more harm than good to students.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Classroom meditation activities not as helpful as intended

The Rubicon Staff
September 23, 2021
GO FOR A RIDE. Biking is an excellent way to relieve stress and get outside.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Get into gear for summer

The Rubicon Staff
May 25, 2021
Students should find points of entry into social movements that fit with their skills and what they are able to contribute.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Find productive ways to make social change

The Rubicon Staff
April 28, 2021
While there are many fish in the sea, having a few close friends helps fight loneliness and has a positive effect on overall health.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Seek quality over quantity

The Rubicon Staff
March 4, 2021
With the emphasis on applying and gaining admission to four year colleges at SPA, other post-high school options such as community college and military service may be overlooked or invalidated.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Don’t limit your path beyond SPA

The Rubicon Staff
February 2, 2021
Mindful donation of clothing, toys, and other products that still have use in them benefits the environment, declutters our space, and can support others in building their own spaces.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Mindfully declutter

The Rubicon Staff
December 16, 2020
The rising use and acceptance of gender neutral pronouns has evolved over time.

Gender neutrality and the rise of nonbinary pronouns

The Rubicon Staff
November 29, 2020
Increased state restrictions and national recommendations from the CDC send the consistent message to stay home. Each of us plays a role in keeping the community, in and outside of SPA, safe.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Validate emotions and losses, stay accountable

The Rubicon Staff
November 24, 2020
The Vice Presidential debate Oct. 7 addressed complicated issues: health care, racial injustice, economic security, gender equality, Roe v. Wade, and more. But all most people remember is the fly that landed on Mike Pence’s head.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Laugh, yes. But look for truth, too.

The Rubicon Staff
October 27, 2020
GEN Z. Teenagers are taking on climate change in order to ensure a future for themselves and the planet.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Understand climate change in context

The Rubicon Staff
October 7, 2020
Keep looking for alternative options for social time. Set up a Netflix party and watch something together; go to a park with masks and stay six feet apart.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Honor social distancing protocols this summer

The Rubicon Staff
May 26, 2020
Here's what the print staff needs to get through this long period of social distancing in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

[PHOTO GALLERY] Stay at home order essentials

The Rubicon Staff
April 30, 2020
POLLY WANTS... A POLITICAL STANCE? Students often repeat their family member's political beliefs, but this is counterproductive -- especially in a discussion-based learning environment. Students should allow their own morals to shape their opinions.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Resist parroting parents’ opinions

The Rubicon Staff
February 5, 2020
It’s vital that warning signs of depression are recognized early on, before escalation.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Suicide prevention starts with education

The Rubicon Staff
January 14, 2020
YOUR CLASSMATE: STEREOTYPE EDITION. Even when stereotypes are occasionally accurate, they are limited, and they can lead to unfair judgments made on appearances alone.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Stereotypes discourage connection

The Rubicon Staff
November 18, 2019
SO SORRY. We cannot treat the shooting deaths of black citizens as isolated incidents.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Don’t let police brutality dialogue die

The Rubicon Staff
September 26, 2019
Susanna Short gets assistance in the health department from new nurse, counselor and more.

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Health department expansions provide much needed resource reinforcement

The Rubicon Staff
March 5, 2019
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Verifying news sources vital to combating misinformation

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Verifying news sources vital to combating misinformation

The Rubicon Staff
February 14, 2019
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Students need to show appreciation of teachers through respect

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Students need to show appreciation of teachers through respect

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
November 20, 2018
[STAFF EDITORIAL] SPA needs to create a clearer, more detailed sexual assault policy

[STAFF EDITORIAL] SPA needs to create a clearer, more detailed sexual assault policy

The Rubicon Staff
October 28, 2018
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Schilling Center guidelines lack clarity

[STAFF EDITORIAL] Schilling Center guidelines lack clarity

The Rubicon Staff
September 30, 2018
CUTTING CLUBS. The administration needs to protect club meeting times on Thursday X-periods so clubs can perform the meaningful role they are designed to for students, the school, and the community.

STAFF EDITORIAL: Truth in advertising: prioritize student clubs

The Rubicon Staff
May 7, 2018
EXPLORE. Break out of your typical routine and experience personal growth to promote an open mindset and encourage curiosity.

STAFF EDITORIAL: Seek discomfort to expand your horizons

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
March 2, 2018
ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM. SPA needs to address what is missing from its curriculum: meaningful conversations about race.

STAFF EDITORIAL: We need to change how SPA talks about race

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
February 17, 2018
Negativity can overshadow all the great opportunities we have at a school like SPA.

STAFF EDITORIAL: Curb complaints and appreciate SPA’s merits

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
December 12, 2017
STAFF EDITORIAL: Mentor program needs attention

STAFF EDITORIAL: Mentor program needs attention

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
November 22, 2017
STAFF EDITORIAL: Step toward a brighter future with green choices

STAFF EDITORIAL: Step toward a brighter future with green choices

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
September 28, 2017
Make an impact in both local and national government by participating in local government opportunities.

STAFF EDITORIAL: It’s time to get political

The Rubicon Staff
June 8, 2017
St. Paul Academy and Summit School offers dozens of interesting, diverse groups that provide outlets for students to accomplish amazing things. Options arise for every student, from Spartan Boosters to Film Club to Spartan Beats to Quiz Bowl to Intercultural Club. Plus, it's incredibly simple to start a new group when there's interest.

Student groups empower on a range of issues

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
May 4, 2016
Beverly Cleary turns 100

Beverly Cleary turns 100

The Rubicon Staff
April 12, 2016
ARE YOU ATTENDING A GAME TONIGHT? Now’s the time to fill the stands with student support.

Fill the stands and cheer (louder!): build school spirit

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
February 14, 2016

January/ February 2016

The Rubicon Staff
January 30, 2016
One plate overfills with creative contributions to lunch table conversation; the other features a bland assortment of food-based comments. This editorial argues that a variety of lunch table conversation topics can be more important than overanalyzing whether you've eaten a variety of food groups.

Clear the lunch table of food conversations

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
January 8, 2016
RATHER THAN PROTECTING US, OUR FEAR keeps us from connecting with others around the world and those in need.

Global isolation not the cure for terror

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial
December 16, 2015

December 2015

The Rubicon Staff
December 12, 2015

November 2015

The Rubicon Staff
November 24, 2015

October 2015

The Rubicon Staff
November 9, 2015
What roles does safety play in learning? The editorial asserts that protection leads to hypersensitivity and overreaction.

Staff Editorial: Too much safety limits perspective

The Rubicon Staff
October 1, 2015

Safety provided at school essential for empowerment

The Rubicon Staff, Editorial Counterpoint
October 1, 2015

September 2015

The Rubicon Staff
September 28, 2015

May 2015

The Rubicon Staff
May 26, 2015

April 2015

The Rubicon Staff
April 25, 2015
Change in gender inequity is voters' responsibility

Change in gender inequity is voters’ responsibility

The Rubicon Staff
April 19, 2015

March 2015

The Rubicon Staff
April 14, 2015

In Review: Speaker Day 2015 stays true to theme

The Rubicon Staff
March 11, 2015
Students are constantly wrapped up in trying to find intellecual, philosophical, and policy-based solutions to major problems in classes; as a result, they fail to recognize the change they could make with hands on volunteering in the larger communnity

Higher volunteering expectations needed to build student buy-in

The Rubicon Staff
February 12, 2015

January/February 2015

The Rubicon Staff
February 4, 2015
It may seem difficult to avoid sounding ignorant or prejudiced, but try asking open-ended questions. Ask someone what their ethnicity is. Then ask them about their culture or sexuality. Ask someone what their religion is. Ask about their family. Ask them about their experiences. But most of all, ask them about what has made them the person they are today.

Asking the messy question is essential

The Rubicon Staff
January 1, 2015

November 2014

The Rubicon Staff
November 25, 2014
Teachers are passionate about helping their students gain a deeper understanding of the material. Taking into account everything that teachers do for students at SPA, it is important to stop by and thank them for their generous drive to help students succeed in all their endeavors.

Teachers build positive learning community

The Rubicon Staff
November 25, 2014

October 2014

The Rubicon Staff
October 22, 2014

September 2014

The Rubicon Staff
September 28, 2014
Students at SPA often forget to see the beauty in their academic studies because of pressure to achieve stellar grades.

Staff Editorial: Seek a schedule filled with joyful challenge

The Rubicon Staff
May 29, 2014
There are many paths to success but, no matter what, there will be detours and pit-stops along the way.

Staff Editorial: Success requires ability to cope with failure

The Rubicon Staff
May 1, 2014

April 2014

The Rubicon Staff
April 28, 2014
For students afflicted with chronic disinterest, well-meant advice to apply oneself often falls on deaf ears. Nonetheless, we all have an obligation to actively participate in our own education.

Staff Editorial: Indifference threatens students’ well-being

The Rubicon Staff
March 25, 2014

March 2014

The Rubicon Staff
March 6, 2014
No matter what you call it, we have to talk about it.

Staff Editorial: We need to re-examine racial discourse

The Rubicon Staff
February 21, 2014

January/February 2014

The Rubicon Staff
February 12, 2014

December 2013

The Rubicon Staff
December 17, 2013
Offensive and misused terms such as “ratchet” have had an increasing presence in social media, music, television and clothing.

Staff Editorial: It’s time to re-examine trendy vocabulary

The Rubicon Staff
November 20, 2013

November 2013

The Rubicon Staff
November 19, 2013

October 2013

The Rubicon Staff
October 26, 2013
Juniors raise their hands in support of their class.

Gallery: School spirit rises high during Homecoming Pepfest

The Rubicon Staff
September 27, 2013

September 2013

The Rubicon Staff
September 24, 2013
Freshmen Mary Grant and Barbara Bathke admire their new water bottles, which were given out during freshman orientation. "It is way too hot, but we're having fun!" Grant said.

Welcome back to school!

The Rubicon Staff
August 27, 2013
Students and teachers socialize with ice cream and popsicles in the Lilly Courtyard after the first day of school.

Photos of the Week Gallery

The Rubicon Staff
August 1, 2013
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