May news briefs

As the school year comes to an end, take a look at what West students have been up to.

Maddy Cook, Print Profiles Co-Editor

May 30, 2025

Prom

West High upperclassmen spent their night at the Graduate Hotel in Iowa City for Prom May 3. This year’s theme was Starry Night. Party After Prom commenced at 10 p.m. at West High where students were able to participate in escape rooms, Save the Campout and Toy Collector. The event also featured inflatables, food, games and raffle prizes, such as a PS5, iPad Mini and AirPods. To have a chance to win the big prizes, students had to stay until 1:15 a.m. when the raffle winners were announced.

Walk it Out

On April 26, over 60 students gathered in Arganbright Auditorium to showcase their cultures in West High’s annual multicultural fashion show, Walk it Out. The event featured performances from numerous regions, such as the Middle East, East Asia, North Africa and more. This was followed by a reception highlighting various cuisines with traditional dishes including shawarma, sushi and more.

Drake track meet

West girls and boys track traveled to Des Moines for the annual Drake Relays April 24-27, bringing 29 male and 12 female athletes. Highest individual placements for the Trojans included Sophia Olivo ’25 placing 11th in the 100-meter hurdles, James Barnett ’28 placing fourth in shot put, Mason Woods ’25 placing third in the long jump and Waleed Ibrahim ’26 placing seventh in the 110-meter hurdles. West also had a successful run in the relays, with the 4×200 relays composed of Mason Woods ’25, Harel Gameti ’25, Julian Manson ’26 and Mason Goering ’26 placing third.

Soccer

The girls and boys soccer teams have had successful seasons, kicking off in late March. Highlights include the annual doubleheader against City High April 24, when both teams faced City High at the University of Iowa soccer field; both the girls and boys teams brought home a win for the Trojans, winning 4-0 and 4-3, respectively. Overall, both teams have maintained a successful record in preparation for upcoming state-qualifying matches beginning May 27.

BPA

52 West High Business Professionals of America students qualified for nationals after competing in the state conference Feb. 24. Under the supervision of BPA advisers Diane Fickel and Emily Hudachek, the group traveled to Orlando, Florida May 7-11. They competed in various events, including advanced interview skills, visual design team and more. 15 West students placed 12th place or higher. BPA national president, Layan Ahmed ’25, wrapped up her one-year term as national president by leading the conference.

AP Testing

Every year, students prep

are to take national Advanced Placement tests scheduled during the first two weeks of May. West High students account for five percent of students in the state taking AP tests. AP Biology marked the start of the two-week AP testing period; testing concluded with AP Psychology, which was nationally rescheduled for late testing due to technical difficulties. Students will receive their scores in early July, with the opportunity to earn college credit depending on their score. After AP testing draws to a close, students will have final exams and projects to prepare for.

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About the Contributors

Maddy Cook, Print Profiles Co-Editor

Maddy is a junior and this is her second year on staff. This year she is the Print Profiles Co-Editor. Outside of the newsroom she is involved in competition dance, and enjoys reading and hanging out with friends and family.

Colin Wehrle, Print Photo and Sports Editor

Colin is a sophomore at West High and is excited for his first year on staff. This year, he serves as the Photo Editor for the print edition of the West Side Story. When he’s not fidgeting with a camera, you can find him running cross country or track, playing saxophone in West High’s numerous ensembles or relaxing at the Java House.

Taelim Yoon, Yearbook People Co-Editor

(she/her) Taelim is a sophomore at West High, and this is her first year on staff.

Maddux Neukirch, Photographer

Maddux Neukirch is a sophomore at West High and this will be his first year on staff. During the year, he hopes to be as timely and organized as he can for himself and for his peers. In his spare time, you can find Maddux coaching soccer, practicing music or stuffing his face with food.

Tyler Shane, Print Assistant Design Editor

Tyler is a junior at West High. This is his second year on staff, and he is the Assistant Design Editor for the print edition. Outside of the newsroom, you can find him working or hanging out with friends.