Hunt naturally builds strong connections with students because of his passion for communication and his energetic personality. He encourages students to visit his office to talk about academics, athletics, or any concerns. “I want to create a safe space for students to communicate,” he says.

Dedicated to helping others, Hunt focuses on growth and improvement in every part of his career while always putting students’ needs first. Despite the challenges of his role, he values spending time with his family.

“Whether it’s taking my children to the Dallas Museum of Art or going to the park, I absolutely adore spending time with my family,” he shares.

As a young administrator, Hunt aims to be both a mentor to students and a present father. “I will go the extra mile and do my best to provide students with a supportive and encouraging environment to succeed.”

Throughout the month of February, Lamar students and staff came together to decorate the halls with historical Black figures, including artists, educators, inventors, philanthropists and more. Many teachers took time to ensure their classroom doors and walls were decorated with vibrant colors and positive messaging to highlight Black History Month. 

Each year, Lamar strives to improve the visibility of Black History Month recognitions. The effort is very much evident all over campus. Some staff members even step out into the hallway to give passersby more information about their displays. To see so many teachers so invested in this special month means a lot to students. 

“It is important to celebrate Black History Month so that we can celebrate and recognize the achievements of the men and women who had to overcome adversity, discrimination and systematic barriers in order to pave the way for future generations,” English teacher Serena De Leon says. “I chose to participate in the hallway display to help showcase these contributions. My students researched influential Black individuals and created posters highlighting their impact. Many were amazed by the achievements of the figures they studied. This project not only deepened their understanding but also gave them the opportunity to share their work with the school community, allowing others to learn and be inspired.”

In some classrooms – teachers have chosen to add Black History Month themed assignments to their lesson plans. This was done to encourage students to further explore the successful Black figures in history and in our present world. 

“I love Black History Month because it reminds me of all the great stories my great-grandmother used to share with me from her era,” student Olivia Whitlock says. “She would tell me about the people, our ancestry, and anything else I wanted to know about our background. So, when I walk through the hallways, and see some of the Black figures she would tell me about – it puts a smile on my face. Just knowing that all those people set goals and made them happen really makes me proud.”

Anything can happen over time, but it’s interesting to think about if teenagers are simply dating for now or dating for the future. Just the thought of “for now or for later” can be both confusing and frustrating to young people. The decisions teens make now can change the way they approach life and love in the future. 

Thinking about what the future has in store may not always be clear, however, with a partner who supports talking about dreams, goals and hopes – there is so much possibility for growth. 

Many adults date to find life partners and spouses, but in high school this isn’t always the goal. A healthy conversation about dating should include the discussion of why one is even attempting to date. 

“I have that mindset that I shouldn’t date someone now if I can’t imagine a future with them” Cedar Hill sophomore Anna Taylor explains. “Overall, I would hope that person can develop into I can grow with and maybe even marry someday.” 

 There are so many factors one needs to consider when dating as a teenager. Relationships should be fun and both parties should work to be supportive of one another. A couple should consist of two individuals who want the best for the other person. A partner should not just serve as a distraction. 

Obstacles will always be present. The opinions of others will always show up. And of course, it’s human nature to have doubts and questions. A healthy relationship is what all teenagers should aspire to have while in high school. It shouldn’t just be about showing a relationship off to the world.

Last week, the government went through with getting TikTok banned because of the app being a national security threat to the United States. The threat was supposedly derived from the Chinese government getting information about the US from the app’s database. Millions of Americans use the app constantly and technology firm ByteDance that made TikTok is based in Beijing – where the Chinese government has access to the company. 

On January 18, 2025 TikTok was temporarily shut down for 24 hours which sent the internet into a frenzy, due to the thought that TikTok was gone forever. TikTok was removed from the app store along with two other popular apps that are closely associated with TikTok. 

At the time, it appeared the government determined that removing the app was in the best interest of the privacy and safety of all American citizens. 

TikTok is one app that teenagers and many others engage in frequently because of how it entertains and informs them in their free time. The idea of losing the app doesn’t sit well with many students, and adults who have made careers on the platform. 

“I feel like TikTok getting banned is too much because TikTok is basically another level of education for us,” said Ni’keria Lowery. “That’s where we learn so much.” 

While TikTok returned to the phones of millions of American users the next day, a potential ban is still very much on the table. 

Not only does the app provide education and entertainment to its users, but it also affords many an additional source of income. The lingering effects of a permanent ban would impact so many people in this country.

There is no denying that a lot goes into running a school of this size. Oftentimes, the hard work done in the background is an afterthought for students. Many of the moving parts of Lamar run so smoothly because of the dedication and service of a prominent figure whose desk is tucked away in the main office. 

Her name is Priscilla Brewer and she serves as the principal’s secretary. To know her for five minutes means you’ve been exposed to both her charm and her helpfulness. Her wonderful attitude and smile are simply infectious. 

Brewer has worked at Lamar for 26 years, however, she hasn’t always been the secretary. 

When she started at Lamar in 1999 she was a clinic assistant, supporting the nurse and working with students who had minor medical issues. After her time in the clinic, Brewer transitioned into a role as an attendance clerk and then as counseling office clerk. In 2012, she arrived at her role as the principal’s secretary. 

To date, Brewer has served as secretary for three Lamar principals and one interim principal.

Brewer is a kindhearted woman who helps anyone in need of her assistance. She takes pride in getting answers to people when they are searching for something. She sincerely tries to have the answers to any questions and she’s always happy to push students and adults in the right path. 

“I think that if we all treat each other like family, and show one another grace, mercy and love – we get more done,” Brewer says. “To just be able to know that we’re all a part of the same family and we can work together to build great things means so much. Even as a student, even as a teacher, even as support staff we can all just treat each other with respect and care. To see everyone work together for the greater good of Lamar means so much to me and truly makes me happy. Whether it’s a student, a teacher or support staff – we all just have to treat each other with respect and care to get things done.” 

There is no denying that Brewer is devoted to her work for Lamar. Even when the days are long and her list of “to do” items is extensive – she greets anyone who approaches her desk with a smile and a willingness to help. 

Coronado, affectionately known as “Jio” is a professional theater actor and he recently starred in The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley JR.

“I have been in theater since I was in sixth grade,” Coronado explains. “I’ve done over twelve shows, and I just prefer musicals because I think they’re so fun.”

When he was in sixth grade, Coronado recalls watching a show at Casa Mañana called “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” It was that production that ignited a fire in him that he just couldn’t put out. 

“I knew I wanted to start doing just that, so I could be in something just like that,” he jokes. “At the end of my sixth grade year, going into seventh grade – I began at Theater Arlington and Casa Mañana Theatre.”

Coronado is a self-described “free spirited individual,” who enjoys his line of work and takes great pride in performing in plays. 

“Every moment has been great – I love theater; I love to sing and dance,” Coronado continues. “Flat Stanley JR was my first show at  Theater Arlington and it was so much fun.”

While Coronado is just beginning his high school journey, he is beyond excited about the opportunities to expand his career in theater. He is bold, daring and has quite the infectious personality. 

“I have no idea how far I can go with my theater career,” Coronado says. “But I have no plans to stop. My road to success is under construction.”

Mindful Mondays are designed to help students release stress and the librarians help students find their way around the books and materials that come with visiting the library.

Library Assistant Kiana Roberson is a quiet force in the library, however, her contributions speak volumes. She helps students navigate the library and discover various genres.

“I would describe the library as comforting,” Roberson explains. “You could come in here with a pass and be on your own, read books, or even work on your phone. As long as you’re not too loud.”

Roberson is a very kind spirited and knowledgeable assistant who takes great pride in keeping the library organized and updated. Many dynamics to the library that students likely overlook are taking care of by Roberson. Not only does she make sure all books are returned to the correct location, but she’s also charged with managing the drop off box and ensuring that the library serves as a welcoming environment.

“I really like doing the art work in the back of the library,” Roberson shares. “It really helps the students visualize materials and it also highlights the great things we’re doing here.”

The very approachable Roberson has been with the Lamar family for four years. She knows where everything is in the library and is a tremendous resource for the faculty and staff. As the direct assistant to Librarian Raquel Brabender – Roberson can be credited with creating a better environment and a safe space for all Lamar students.