Seniors posing with Year book member, Hope Lassnick and Campus Minister, Mr. Carillion

It’s hard to believe that the seniors are graduating. As they leave the baccalaureate mass, I can’t help but think about where I’ll be next year. For four years, they’ve graced our hallways and demonstrated growth and excellence. It makes me wonder what kind of legacy we will all leave behind. We are excited to watch and see what they do as they embark on their journeys into the world. As the juniors take the seniors’ seats at baccalaureate, we are reminded of what it was like to be a freshman. Four years seems like a long time at the beginning, but not enough time by the end. I’m still reeling from how quickly “then” became “now”. We find the courage to move forward and create our paths through faith and intention, remembering all those who came before us who did the same. From nearly impossible finals to heated spirit week rallies, the class of 2027 really is taking the initiative towards lion lunacy in its spirit for the community. To the incoming freshman, remember these four years are short but worth every bit. Enjoy all the little moments, and the big ones (like turning in your Yondr pouch at the end of the year). It’s needless to say, I’m excited to go off into senior year, but also very sad it see its coming to an end. 

Remember Highschool is a time of transformation, and as we go into our senior year, we are reminded that the world is in our hands. Eleanor Roosevelt reminds us, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” You dont have to have it all figured out now, you just need to go out there and own it. So, graduating seniors, go out there and own it. 

 That being said, the yearbook team for 2026-2027 is so proud to announce our first article. We are excited to see where the year goes and plan to bring in more engagement and opportunities to The Mane. We plan to include monthly games and polls in the newspaper that may result in prizes or even… spirit points (I’m looking at my seniors). We are also glad to announce that the newspaper will start to include comics drawn by members of our team! Please know that The Mane at Studio 222 is always open to your suggestions and ideas. I encourage all to share ideas and articles with me. The team is so excited to see where the year takes us, and congratulations to the new members of Yearbook 2026-2027. 

The seniors had their cookout on Wednesday may 6th. Yearbook interviewed the seniors, going around and asking what they will miss most about NDCL. They responded:

“The Community”- Sadie Skotzke

“The teachers who have shaped who I am today.”- Mark LaForest

“The close-knit NDCL community, and Mr. Brlecic.” – Rook Eckert

“Skipping class to go to Campus Ministry.”- Anonymous (a noble pursuit)

“The Service.”- Joey Mazzolini

“Friends and the teachers I had good relationships with.”- Marija Vukovich

And finally, we asked Tuffy what he would miss about the Class of 2026.

“Their love, their pride, and their passion for the NDCL school community.” -Tuffy, The Lion

We will miss you, Seniors! Dont forget to study for your finals and check The Mane over the summer for spotlight articles to earn some extra points for your grade. Enjoy the awesome summer break. I know I will. 

Here are a few songs I listened to while writing this article.

• “Bend & Break” – Keane
• “Landslide” – Fleetwood Mac
• “Bitter Sweet Symphony” – New Radicals
• “We Didnt Start the Fire” – Billy Joel
• “Walk on the Ocean” – Toad the Wet Sprocket
• “Changes” – David Bowie
• “Tonight, Tonight” -The Smashing Pumpkins
• “Learning to Fly” – Pink Floyd
• And a personal favorite from a beloved coming-of-age movie, “Heroes” – David Bowie

For suggestions and questions for the newspaper, contact Natalie Rieger at [email protected]