Grace Larson

Immeasurable growth occurs in the years between a high school student’s first day of freshman year and last day of senior year. With numerous new academic and social experiences, and the newfound freedom that comes with age, high school students undergo what often seems like a complete transformation. Among the opportunities offered in high school, joining band class is one of the most valuable and character-strengthening experiences available.

David Abel

Have you ever been to Washington, D.C.? Would you like to learn more about electric cooperatives? The North Dakota Electric Cooperative Youth Tour is a week-long, all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June 2024.

Students from across the country gather in our nation’s capital to learn about cooperatives, meet with our state’s elected officials and visit historical sites. Each student represents his or her local electric cooperative, with 44 states represented.

Will M. Nelson

To my teachers, past and present:

“Thank you” doesn’t do you justice. You have given more than I can summarize with words or ever express in any form of gratitude. Nonetheless, I will try.

During my 13 years in the public school system, each of you has made a difference in my life. From the kindergarten teacher who taught me to tie my shoes to the physics teacher who challenged the limits of my critical thinking, each of you made an impact, which cannot be measured by concepts learned, awards bestowed or test scores.

Brooklyn Hager

Sports can be rewarding in the lives of students. Athletes develop friendships and build teamwork, and sports offer a sense of accomplishment, and encourage students to exercise.

Statistically, students who participate in sports do better academically than their counterparts who do not. A study at the University of Kansas found students in sports are 10% more likely to graduate from high school.

Will M. Nelson

North Dakota students feel unheard. We have been hampered by a global pandemic, distorted by the stories dominating the national political media and dismissed because we are adolescents. Rather than make a wishlist of legislative priorities, we are simply asking the North Dakota Legislature to listen to us. We want them to see us where we are and to legislate accordingly.

Will M. Nelson

Summer is here! When I asked my friends about their summer travel plans, one commented, “Why would I stay here? I am off to Florida.” With candor, he denied any possibility of traveling around North Dakota. Our state is often overlooked as a tourist destination, especially by our younger residents. Many overlook the vast variety in North Dakota’s natural and manmade features.