Signing Off

Paige Towle, c.2002

When I first stepped into The Ensider classroom three years ago, I had a team of seven students and a single guiding hope: to create a space where student voices could be heard—not just loudly, but authentically. What has followed has been one of the most unexpected joys of my teaching career. We’ve grown not just in numbers but in style, purpose, and impact. And as I now step away from the role of newspaper advisor, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude—for the articles you wrote, the ideas you fought for, and the space we built together.

What started as a quiet corner of campus has become a vibrant hub of creativity, critique, and curiosity. From breaking school news to deep dives into fashion, mental health, politics, and culture, you have explored it all. You’ve made me laugh, think, cringe (yes), and above all, hopeful. I’ve done my best to protect your creative freedom and encourage your individuality—because this has never been my publication. It’s always been yours.

I want to take a moment to speak to each of you who made this year's paper what it was:

Jacob — You’ve been with me from the start, and what a journey it’s been. Watching you take risks and find your voice has been one of my proudest moments as a teacher. You bring necessary, sometimes uncomfortable, but always important conversations to the table. You’ve never wavered in your beliefs, and I hope the result of your commitment inspires future students, both in school and out.

Caryss — Also a three-year veteran with me, you’ve embraced your own lane in writing with integrity and heart. You’ve carved out your own space in this class…quietly, steadily, and with unwavering authenticity. Through challenges, you’ve remained committed, and I’m so proud of the legacy you leave as you graduate. 

Hudson — You jumped in as a freshman, and I’m so glad you did. You’ve explored everything from film culture to philosophical theory to the intricacies of the human psyche—and your ability to dive deep into a topic and wrestle with it through writing is truly impressive. Your voice is thoughtful, articulate, and curious in all the right ways. Our side conversations have been a highlight for me, and I can’t wait to see how you continue to grow next year.

Rhys — Getting started with writing wasn’t always easy, but once you found a topic that interested you, your voice came through in ways that let me understand you more. Whether it was through your articles, on-screen presence during broadcasts, or your unique sense of humor, you brought authenticity to the class in your own way. 

Harrison — You’ve been a quiet force in this class. Though often reluctant to jump in, you’ve consistently supported the team—especially this year with the website—and your articles are sharp (especially the ones I never let you fully write haha). Your understated style and willingness to step up when needed haven’t gone unnoticed.

Henry — You’ve been such a great addition to the team, and I’m happy I bullied you into joining two years ago. Your writing is original, clever, and full of left-field observations that challenge the norm. Even when we don’t agree, I always look forward to hearing your take. You bring an edge that makes our class better and more interesting.

Allie and Samantha — You’re the dynamic duo. Allie, your energy and intellectual drive never dips; your ability to chase what truly interests you is something I hope you never lose. You have a sharp eye and a gift for digging into topics with clarity and purpose, always pushing to get to the core of the story. Samantha, your fashion and music pieces always brought balance, clarity, and polish. I’ve loved your ability to elevate the everyday into something meaningful. Together, you’ve helped anchor the publication with creativity, consistency, and style. Excited to see your voices continue in the future!

Rae — Your voice has added something truly special to our team. Your writing on makeup and beauty brought a fresh, insightful lens that too often gets overlooked or underestimated. You are talented, witty, and you have an eye for connecting trends, identity, and storytelling in a way that’s both smart and stylish. I hope you keep developing your niche and realize just how powerful your voice really is. 

Soren — You’re quiet, but your writing isn’t. Your commitment to learning through writing has been such a cool thing to witness. You’ve shown how introspective writing can be, even without saying much aloud.

Peter — You came in with force (mostly good…depends on the day haha). You ask the hard questions, offer a different angle, and keep us from getting comfortable. And your work behind the scenes—digital, visual, and imaginative—has been invaluable. You take a lot of criticism, but you stay true to yourself, and for that, I respect you a lot.

Mitch — You found your lane in history and absolutely ran with it. Your writing showed depth and precision, and I know more people than you realize were learning from what you had to say. Whether unpacking historical parallels or highlighting lesser-known events, your pieces were thoughtful, well-researched, and genuinely informative. I learned a lot from your work—and I know others did too.

Adeline, Claire, and Charlotte — My joyful trio. You three brought such a burst of positivity, humor, and drive to the team this year. Whether it was brainstorming wild article ideas, keeping each other accountable, or just showing up with contagious energy, you made this space feel lighter and more fun. I’ve appreciated how each of you found your own voice while also working as a team—balancing creativity, responsibility, and a refreshing dose of chaos. You reminded me that fun and rigor can go hand in hand.

Our little newsroom has always been more than just a class—it’s been a place to ask hard questions, challenge each other, laugh, cry, vent, and grow. Gosh, how I wish more people on this campus really knew what this class was like together. Like any real family, we’ve had our disagreements, our off-days, and our strong personalities. But at the end of the day, you’ve got each other’s backs.

And I’ll always have yours. 

-PT