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The Mirror

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The student website of Van Nuys High School
Van Nuys, California
The Student News Site of Van Nuys High School

The Mirror

The Student News Site of Van Nuys High School

The Mirror

The girls show off their elegant nail sets for prom night.
PHOTO STORY: Prom-goers display stunning nail art creativity
By Brian Batres, Photographer • May 23, 2025
At this year's prom, the wolves displayed their creativity through vibrant and artistic nail designs, showcasing a variety of colors and styles that captivated attendees.
Senior Xavier Martin-Porter and junior Connor Ruckman fill the auditorium with green as they welcome Glinda and Elphaba to Emerald City.
Students captivate audience in musical theater showcase
By Melissa Ocegueda, Staff Writer
Van Nuys High School's Musical Theater class dazzled with a showcase featuring performances from "Pippin" to "Cabaret," marking a bittersweet farewell for graduating seniors.
Students face consequences for wild AP exam cheating attempts
Students face consequences for wild AP exam cheating attempts
By Argem Alipio, Staff Writer
During the 2025 AP exams, students employed creative cheating methods that led to serious consequences, including canceled scores and disciplinary actions, highlighting the risks of unethical behavior.
Students have been making improvement with their grades and attendance in hopes of becoming eligible for senior activities.
Van Nuys seniors strive to meet prom and graduation requirements
By Ocean Threats, Staff Writer
Seniors at Van Nuys High School are working hard to meet attendance and grade requirements to attend prom and graduation, finding creative solutions to overcome obstacles.
Unconventional sports challenge traditional high school programs
Unconventional sports challenge traditional high school programs
By Ennio Muhi, Staff Writer
High school programs debate the inclusion of unconventional sports like slapping contests. Students express mixed feelings about safety and educational value in comparison to traditional sports.
Elon Musk listens to U.S. President Donald Trump speak in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 11, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque
Elon Musk’s appointment to DOGE sparks public outcry
By Joshua Cazares, Staff Writer
Elon Musk's appointment to lead the Department of Government Efficiency has sparked widespread public protests and legal challenges, raising concerns over privacy, ethics, and government overreach.
 HERE WE GO AGAIN  President Trump has once again pushed the deadline back, now allowing the app to operate until June 19.
TikTok dances around a ban again, but the algorithm says trouble ahead
By Joshua Cazares, Staff Writer
TikTok narrowly avoids a U.S. ban again, as negotiations extend the deadline, leaving millions of users uncertain about the app's future and its impact on digital culture.
U.S. President Donald Trump holds a chart next to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick as Trump delivers remarks on tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 2, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria
Tariffs on imports affect tech stocks and consumer prices
By Alyson Cerna and Argem Alipio
President Trump's tariffs on imports raise concerns in fashion and tech industries, affecting prices and market stability. Tariffs paused for China, but uncertainty remains.
Pope Leo XIV becomes first American pope after historic conclave
Pope Leo XIV becomes first American pope after historic conclave
By Alyson Cerna, News and Features Editor
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, becomes the first American pope after a historic conclave. His election marks a significant moment in Vatican history.
Video game industry profits from young gamers' spending
Video game industry profits from young gamers’ spending
By Leon Weiss, Staff Writer
Gaming companies are targeting teens with micro-transactions, leading to repetitive spending. Indie games offer an alternative by providing immersive experiences without hidden costs.
Princess, a shelter dog waiting for a home. Cuts in funding for Los Angeles animal services can put dogs like Princess at risk of losing adequate care and being put on the euthanasia list.
Karen Bass’ proposed budget cuts will harm the lives of animals all over LA county
By Leon Weiss, Staff Writer
Los Angeles shelters face challenges as budget cuts threaten animal services, risking increased euthanasia and hindering adoption efforts.
In an age where viral posts shape opinions and spread falsehoods, teaching students to question what they see online is no longer optional — it's essential.
Schools prioritize media literacy amid rising misinformation
By Joel Nam, Opinion Editor
Amid the rapid spread of misinformation on social media, schools are urged to teach media literacy, equipping students with skills to critically evaluate digital content.
Students seek balance in high-pressure AP exam season
Students seek balance in high-pressure AP exam season
By Abigail Kim, Staff Writer
Students face intense pressure during AP exam season, but strategic study habits and a focus on well-being help them manage stress and redefine success.
SELF-MADE SOCCER STAR  Jessica Merchant gives insight on her soccer career
Jessica Merchant shows tenacity as soccer team captain
By Adamaris Chevez, Staff Writer
Jessica Merchant, a high school soccer captain, exemplifies leadership and resilience. Overcoming an ACL injury, she inspires her team with her dedication and passion for the game.
Van Nuys Wolves football team earns 'Most Improved' award from Los Angeles Rams
Van Nuys Wolves football team earns ‘Most Improved’ award from Los Angeles Rams
By Natalie Herrera, Staff Writer
The Van Nuys Wolves' season was marked by hard work and resilience, culminating in a historic championship appearance and recognition from the Los Angeles Rams as 'Most Improved' team.
Van Nuys Wolves' boys volleyball playoff run ends in close match against Carson
Van Nuys Wolves’ boys volleyball playoff run ends in close match against Carson
By Ennio Muhi, Staff Writer
The Van Nuys Wolves boys varsity volleyball team made it to the playoffs, advancing past Fremont but falling in a tight match against Carson. Despite the loss, they showcased determination.
Varsity Seniors receiving their farewell gifts.
Van Nuys baseball wins league title after 34 years
By Isabel Valles, Athletics Editor
The Van Nuys varsity baseball team secured the East Valley League championship for the first time in 34 years, defeating Monroe High School 10-3 on senior night.
Scoreboard
Arcane challenges viewers with its complex world and themes
Arcane challenges viewers with its complex world and themes
By Alyssa Reign Pontines, Staff Writer
Arcane's first three episodes introduce a world of class conflict and forbidden knowledge, brought to life with Fortiche's distinct animation style. The series promises a rich, thought-provoking experience.
New Avengers emerge in Marvel's Thunderbolts*
New Avengers emerge in Marvel’s Thunderbolts*
By Deven Martinez, Staff Writer
Thunderbolts* offers a fresh take on Marvel antiheroes, blending humor and action. Florence Pugh's standout performance and unexpected plot twists keep audiences engaged.
Pop Culture Update: Met Gala fits, TikTok trends and rumors
Pop Culture Update: Met Gala fits, TikTok trends and rumors
By Melissa Ocegueda, Staff Writer
The Met Gala, TikTok trends, and social media controversies highlight current pop culture dynamics. From LISA's outfit choice to viral trends and internet backlash, explore the latest buzz.
Beyoncé captivates with Cowboy Carter Tour debut in Inglewood
Beyoncé captivates with Cowboy Carter Tour debut in Inglewood
By Addison Cudd, Arts and Entertainment Editor

The Renaissance Era is over for Beyonce but, as of April 28, 2025 at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California she brought a new tour to town, The Cowboy Carter Tour. For many, this tour was incredible,...

 WHAT’S UP DOC?  After winning a $2,000 grant last semester, Mr. Robert Docter was able to refresh his classroom, adding better lighting and decorative plants.
Teacher transforms classroom with $2,000 grant
By Elizabeth Escobar, Staff Writer
An AP Government teacher uses a $2,000 grant to transform his classroom, creating a welcoming environment and strengthening relationships with students through collaborative design efforts.
 WHO SAYS BOYS DON’T DANCE? 

Young men in Dance Company, including junior Armando Pacheco, help break male dancer stereotypes one performance at a time. Social pressure keeps many boys away from the artform.
Boys challenge dance stereotypes at school
By Elizabeth Escobar and Skylie Molina
Dance Company offers a space for students to express themselves, but stereotypes still deter boys from joining. Despite challenges, some boys push past societal norms to follow their passion.
Seniors Aldo Jimenez, Dwayne Famenia, Sofia Batemen, Caden Evans, and others enjoying the sunset which they worked so hard to see.
PHOTO STORY: Students explore math skills at scenic Frazier Park camp
Students at a math camp in Frazier Park engage in lessons, practice exams and nature walks, enhancing their math skills amid the park's snowy beauty.
The Editors-in-chief Madison Thacker and Olamide Olumide hold the online Pacemaker award for the Spring 2025 National High School Journalism Convention.
The Mirror triumphs with multiple awards at national journalism convention
By Alyson Cerna, News and Features Editor
The Mirror celebrates a successful year with multiple awards at the JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention in Seattle, including its first Online Pacemaker and multiple first-place wins.
La gripe aviar se extiende y afecta a las aves de corral y a los consumidores estadounidenses
La gripe aviar se extiende y afecta a las aves de corral y a los consumidores estadounidenses
By Elizabeth Escobar, Staff Writer
El brote de gripe aviar en curso está afectando el suministro de alimentos en Estados Unidos y provocando un aumento de precios. Las industrias avícola y láctea enfrentan desafíos a medida que el virus se propaga, impactando a los consumidores de todo el país.
Aumenta la preocupación por la privacidad de los datos a medida que los gigantes tecnológicos recopilan más información
Aumenta la preocupación por la privacidad de los datos a medida que los gigantes tecnológicos recopilan más información
By Joel Nam, Opinion Editor
En la era digital, los datos personales se recopilan y venden con frecuencia, lo que plantea importantes problemas de privacidad. Se necesitan normas más estrictas para proteger a las personas del uso indebido y la manipulación.
PITCH PERFECT The graduating class of 2025 will have had
five different choir teachers in
their four years in the program.
La armonía prevalece a pesar de los cambios en la dirección del coro de Van Nuys
By Deven Martinez, Staff Writer
El programa de coro de la escuela secundaria Van Nuys se enfrentò a numerosos cambios de director, pero los alumnos demonstraron resistencia y liderazgo, asegurando el éxito del programa en tiempos difíciles.
GETTING READY FOR BATTLE Seniors Mayya Golub and Sofia Bateman show off their unique water guns for senior assassin.
Los estudiantes se sumergen en Senior Assassin para divertirse a final de curso
By Skylie Molina, Staff Writer

“Lo siento, lo siento”, gritó Ryan Kumar, estudiante de último curso, mientras perseguía a su amigo, su objetivo asignado, antes de lograr la eliminación. A medida que el curso escolar 2024-2025...

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