This year, Mya Luna, who is ranked number 8 among the top 10 students, shared some heartfelt words about her achievement. Luna expressed, “Being in the top 10 is a reflection of all the hard work and dedication I have put into my studies, and it is what I am most proud of as I graduate from high school. It definitely wasn’t something that came easily; there were late nights, early mornings, and moments where I felt overwhelmed with work and didn’t know what to do next. Being number 8 in my class isn’t just a number for me; it symbolizes how deeply I believed in and cared for my goals. I have made many sacrifices, and through all the adversity, I have given my all to my studies. Standing here at the end of my high school career, being at the top of my class reminds me that all the effort I put into myself and my education was worth it.”

Mya will continue her journey at Texas A&M University, where she plans to study to become a veterinarian. “From a very young age, I have always wanted to be a veterinarian, specifically specializing in equine and livestock. I have a deep love for animals and want to serve as their voice by helping to keep them healthy and happy. Long-term, I aspire to open my own practice that focuses on building strong relationships with clients while advancing both clinical experience and contributions to the field,” said Luna about her future plans. Good luck at Texas A&M, Mya! Angela Ortiz Lopez, Class of 2025

This year, our students in the health pathway—whether they are enrolled in medical assisting, EKG, or pharmacy tech classes—have all been working diligently to pass their certification exams since the start of the school year. They began taking their exams in early March, and the results have been encouraging: 24 out of 49 medical assisting students passed, 16 out of 19 EKG students passed, and 10 out of 13 pharmacy tech students passed. Everyone is hopeful that all students will achieve success as they prepare for their third round of testing. This certification will allow them to enter the healthcare field immediately after high school.

Pharmacy tech student Alessandra Natividad passed her exam in the first round with the highest score ever recorded in the history of the pharmacy tech class. “The journey definitely wasn’t easy; I encountered many struggles while trying my best to be patient and disciplined, using various resources and strategies to achieve my goals along the way. However, I am truly proud and grateful to say that all my efforts were not in vain. I couldn’t have been more overjoyed and relieved not only to have passed my certification exam but also to have achieved the highest score—a feat I didn't think I was capable of but am thankful for,” said senior Alessandra Natividad. This is also her second certification after passing her medical assisting exam last year as a junior. If Alessandra chooses to use her pharmacy tech certification, she can work in a pharmacy or hospital, helping a pharmacist prepare and dispense medication as well as providing patient care.

Jennifer Garcia also passed her EKG exam in the first round, marking her second certification since she passed her medical assistant exam last year. “I studied a lot, hoping to pass on my first attempt, and I did! It was a very exciting moment. I was so happy because it meant I now had two certifications: EKG and Medical Assistant. I also feel that taking the CMA class last year helped me pass the test since I already knew a bit about EKG and what types of questions are asked on the exam,” said senior Jennifer Garcia. As an EKG technician, she can work in a clinical or hospital setting, using specialized equipment to measure the electrical activity of a patient’s heart.

Angela Ortiz Lopez, now a senior, passed her medical assistant certification as a junior last year. “When I passed my test as a junior, I was really proud because we were the first junior class to take the CMA exam. I remember studying diligently as the exam date approached, even staying up late while my parents urged me to go to bed. The first thing I did when I got my score was call my mom to tell her. It was a very proud and emotional moment for me,” said senior Angela Ortiz Lopez. With her certification, Angela can work in a clinic or hospital, checking patients' vitals, preparing them for exams, drawing blood, and administering injections. Emily Martinez, Class of 2025

Starting in May, the Southwest Yearbook Club is launching a brand-new podcast titled Dragon Tales. After months of planning and preparation, the club is excited to share this unique project with the school community. Designed to bring students and staff closer together, Dragon Tales aims to highlight the voices and stories that make up the heart of Southwest, our Dragon Nation.

The response to the announcement of Dragon Tales has been overwhelmingly positive. Students and staff alike have expressed enthusiasm about the podcast’s potential to build a stronger school culture and provide a new platform for sharing experiences, ideas, and perspectives.

Mrs. Estes, the school librarian, shared her excitement about the podcast, noting that she believes Dragon Tales is a perfect name for Southwest’s new venture. “I’m looking forward to hearing about teachers’ hobbies and the interesting things they do outside of school,” she said. “The podcast will give us a glimpse into parts of our community that we don’t often get to see. It’s a great way to enrich the culture here at Southwest.”

Sophia Martinez, a Southwest student, also praised the initiative. While she finds Dragon Tales catchy, she mentioned she would have liked the name Keeping Up with the Dragons. Still, she’s eager to tune in and hopes to hear episodes focused on school life, mental health, and positive thinking. “I think the podcast will help people open up more,” she said. “It’s going to bring us together and help create stronger bonds within the school.”

Another student, Rene Lozano, believes Dragon Tales is a fitting and exciting name for the new podcast. He’s looking forward to episodes that focus on current events on campus, school-wide happenings, and public media. “It’s something to look forward to,” he said. “This podcast is going to get more people involved and informed, which will have a great impact on our school’s culture.”

With its launch just around the corner, Dragon Tales is already sparking anticipation throughout the Southwest campus. By highlighting the stories, challenges, and passions of the people who make up the Dragon community, the Yearbook Club hopes the podcast will leave a lasting impact and continue to bring the school closer together.

Ariana Ortiz c/o 2028

Yearbooks are finally here! With that being said, online purchasing will NO longer be available. Students who pre-ordered their yearbooks can pick them up in room 251B! You can also purchase your yearbook for $70 with cash, or check. Stop by room 251 before school, during lunch and after school.

Congratulations to the SWHS Library Book Club! They received an Honorable Mention at the 9th Annual 90 Second Newbery Film Festival, which came with a $500 cash prize. Southwest High School was the only school in the district to place in this competition, winning in the category of Best Film!

On April 19th, Southwest High School held its annual prom! This year's theme was Garden of the Gods. "This was my first prom, I didn't want to go last year because I wanted it to be a new experience. I had a good time because I got to spend it with my friends," said senior Emily Martinez. Mr. Bell raised over $6,000 to make the prom more affordable for students. "Prom was fun because I hadn't gotten dolled up in a while. I felt like a pretty princess. It was also fun because I had my boyfriend as my prince." said senior Akeela Custer.

Each year, between 500 and 1,000 females under the age of 20 are diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Over Spring Break, junior Angelina Terrazas became one of those 500 to 1,000 females at the age of 17. “The day I got diagnosed with cancer was truly horrifying. I couldn’t believe it when the doctor told me. None of it felt real, and it was just a scary thing to hear. I still haven’t fully processed it a month later. Cancer is such a daunting thing to deal with,” said Terrazas.

On Thursday, April 17th, the softball team organized a prayer circle for Angelina at the softball field, inviting anyone from the district and the public to join. Everyone was encouraged to wear purple, Angelina’s favorite color. Teachers, softball players from other schools, and even Superintendent Dr. Ball attended in support of Angie. “When I saw how many people showed up for the prayer circle, I felt so happy. It truly warmed my heart to see the people I love come together. Even those I don’t know well, I am grateful for their support. Knowing I am not alone in this fight and that so many people have my back feels incredible. I am truly blessed to have such a great support system,” said Angie.

Dr. Ball opened the morning with a prayer for Angelina’s health, followed by small prayers from board members, teachers, and some players. After everyone had a chance to pray aloud, attendees were able to meet with Angelina one-on-one, offering hugs and conversations. The softball team provided donuts and orange juice for everyone, along with a large banner where people could write positive notes to Angie. “The overwhelming support for Angie was truly touching. People from all over the district came, including our own superintendent, not just her softball teammates. We all came together, creating an atmosphere of unity and joy that was very moving. It was so cool to see,” said sophomore Erin Piedra.

Angie, I know what you’re going through is nerve-racking and scary, but always remember that you’re never alone in this battle. There will always be someone in your corner cheering for and supporting you no matter what. Stay strong, Angie; we love you!

Makenzie Calandres, c/o 2027.

Big Congratulations goes out to our NJROTC as they have been recognized as a distinguished unit with honors for the 9th year in a row! Great job by this crew!

Newsletter Editor: Akeela Custer

TikTok: @yearbookswhs

Email: speterson@swisd.net
Location: 11914 Dragon Lane, San Antonio, TX, USA