The student news site of Westwood High School.

Westwood Horizon
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The student news site of Westwood High School.

Westwood Horizon
The student news site of Westwood High School.

Westwood Horizon
Aarya Kale

Aarya Kale, News Editor

Class of 2026

Hey! Besides being a passionate writer and photographer, I also happen to have a liking for all things cheese :) If I don’t happen to be eating some, I’m probably off reading a nice book or hanging out with my friends!

All content by Aarya Kale
A new series of renovations will commence for The Domain in late 2024 and early 2025, bringing numerous additional luxury brands and greenspaces to the complex. These changes have incited broader discussions surrounding Austin's growth trajectory towards smart city planning and modernized suburban development.

Massive Wave of Domain Renovations Prompts Discussion on Austin’s Rapid Growth

Nikhil Gupta, Reporter
December 6, 2024
A prominent festival in Indian culture, Diwali holds a special importance in the hearts of people across the world. But for children living in the United States, the celebrations hold a deeper value; many students note that Diwali is a time for them to express their bicultural backgrounds.

Living in the Melting Pot

Kriya Handa, Dreamcatcher Editor-in-Chief
November 5, 2024
With the upcoming district election fast-approaching, students express feeling concerned and disoriented regarding their minimal role in the democratic process. Many of these individuals point out that the Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) election in particular holds the potential to affect them the most, however only a fraction of them are allowed to vote and actively take part in it.

Students Comment On Role In Democratic Process

Nikhil Gupta, Reporter
November 4, 2024
In preparation for the upcoming RRISD elections, many community members have found themselves researching about and assessing the four propositions on the ballot. Each proposition provides a detailed breakdown of its diverse aims, and is allocated a set amount of money derived from the larger proposed bond.

“Students Are Finally Being Acknowledged”

Valeria Tijerina and Aarya Kale
October 20, 2024
Focused on perfecting the preparation of their crafting materials, StuCo Junior Class Vice President Reva Chandane and Secretary Ryan Gu work on constructing their Minecraft-themed float. The volunteers worked hard to ensure that their float effectively portrayed the desired theme, and was fun and interactive in anticipation of the upcoming parade.

Classes Collectively Construct Homecoming Floats

October 16, 2024
Launching into the air, Outside Hitter Iris Huddleston '28 leaps to deliver the ball on the opposite end of the court. Although the Tigers eventually dominated over the Warriors, Huddleston contributed to the Warrior attempt towards a solid offense.

JV Orange Volleyball Succumbs to Stony Point 0-2

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 25, 2024
Anticipating fellow teammate Defensive Specialist Claire Toupin '27's upward launch of the ball, Outside Hitter Leticia Viana '26 prepares to retaliate against the opposing team. The team utilized fluid teamwork and consistent aggression to eventually win the game.

JV Orange Volleyball Triumphs 2-0 Over McNeil

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 15, 2024
Following through after delivering a powerful punch to the ball, Outside Hitter Iris Huddleston '28 leaps into the air. Huddleston played a pivotal role in ensuring both Warrior defense and offense remained strong throughout the game.

JV Orange Volleyball Secures First Win of Season Against Hutto

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 6, 2024
Phone caddies, such as the one shown, have been heavily used by teachers across campus to implement the new phone policy. Placing heavy restrictions on student's phone usage, the policy aims to foster greater human connection in class.

New Year New Policies: School-Issued Phone Policy Sparks Controversy

September 6, 2024
Outlining a series of events involving weapons found in a student's vehicle, Principal Erin Campbell's Community Letter sparked discussion on student safety procedures and protocol.

Principal Erin Campbell's Community Letter Sparks Student Safety Concerns

September 4, 2024
Anticipating their first game of the season, Setter Henley Hammonds '28 and Pin Hitter Aurora Simmons '28 warm up during the pre-game prep time. Both players contributed to the offensive efforts Westwood put forth during the game.

JV Orange Volleyball Suffers Crushing Defeat to Vandegrift 0-2

Aarya Kale, News Editor
August 30, 2024
On April 26, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed SB 1325, allowing teachers to be armed at school. While this bill is intended to prevent school shooting tragedies, due to its poor foresight and lack of proper research, it will inevitably fail.

Tennessee Allowing Armed Teachers Will Inevitably Fail

Aarya Kale, News Editor
May 24, 2024
With the new season of Bridgerton out, read on to see how you can live your live your life of royalty in Austin!

‘Bridgerton’-Themed Summer Austin Itinerary

Aarya Kale, News Editor
May 23, 2024
Posing with the chapter's banner, DECA members beam together at their shared success. In order to prepare for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC), many students worked tirelessly to perfect their projects, hone presentation skills, and study hard for event-based exams.

DECA Members Experience Difference at International Conference

Aarya Kale, News Editor
May 15, 2024
Anticipating the upcoming event, sophomore class StuCo officers pose with bright smiles after setting up for prom. Working for many months in preparation for the event, StuCo officers prioritized making prom an engaging and enjoyable night.

24-25 StuCo Officers Share Goals for Next Year

May 3, 2024
Focusing in on the ball, midfielder Henley Patak '27 moves to gain back possession of the ball from Viper offense. The Vipers and their aggressive offense proved to be a challenge for the Warriors, preventing them from scoring more than one goal.

JV Girls Soccer Concludes Season With 1-1 Draw Against Vandegrift

Aarya Kale, News Editor
March 14, 2024
Warrior Pride strikes their final pose as they conclude their jazz routine.

Warrior Pride Shares Stage with RRISD Schools at Merge

Aarya Kale, News Editor
March 11, 2024
McNeil has already begun to display their new IB accreditation by modifying their website and description to include the words “IB World School”. This accreditation is taking the next step in providing a better academic environment for McNeil students, but has left some Westwood IB transfers feeling conflicted.

McNeil’s New IB Program Conflicts Westwood Transfers

Aarya Kale, News Editor
March 8, 2024
Eyes on fixed on the ball, defender Ella Smith '27 tries to maneuver around Raider defense to gain back possession. Smith played a crucial role in helping the Warriors keep the ball in the Raiders' half.

JV Women’s Soccer Triumphs 4-0 Against Cedar Ridge

Aarya Kale, News Editor
February 23, 2024
Leading the group in musical practices, choir presidents Kayla Contello '24, Annika Iyer '24, and Elise Trenk '24 stand together singing. With strong ties to music, the presidents weaved their passion for choir with their creative leadership to foster a supportive and talented choral community. "My goal is always about making this the best memory it can be for everyone involved," Trenk said. "I want my personal legacy to have [created] a community built around making choir fun and a safe space for all of us."

Closing the Curtain: Choir Presidents Leave Lasting Legacy

Aarya Kale, News Editor
February 23, 2024
Beaming at their audience, Warrior Pride hits a power stance during their jazz routine. Pride members worked hard on their stage presence and facials in preparation for the performance. "Walking on the dance floor, I am just excited and happy to be here," Alicia Kanazawa de Figueiredo '25 said. "Once the music starts playing I put everything out there and just have lots of fun dancing."

Warrior Pride Dazzles Audiences at Central Austin Challenge Dance Contest

Aarya Kale, News Editor
February 21, 2024
Fighting to reach the ball, Center Forward Sam McLelland '27 pushes past Mustang defense. McLelland played a pivotal role in gaining back possession throughout the game.

JV Women’s Soccer Demolishes Manor Mustangs 6-0

Aarya Kale, News Editor
February 8, 2024
As the run back to their positions on the field, Jaelynn Solis '27 and Henley Patak '27 share a celebratory clap. Soils and Patak played pivotal roles in the Warriors blowout win.

JV Women’s Soccer Secures Victory Over Vista Ridge 4-1

Aarya Kale, News Editor
January 28, 2024
Have you ever yearned to visit Arendelle and experience a magical winter wonderland? Continue reading for a list of cold weather approved activities in Austin that can transport you into Anna and Elsa’s kingdom.

Feel the Festivity With ‘Frozen’: A Winter-Themed Itinerary of Austin

Aarya Kale, News Editor
January 17, 2024
Imposing a ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices in Texas public universities, Senate Bill 17 officially went into effect on Jan.1, 2024. This bill will increase underrepresentation for marginalized groups.

Texas’ Ban on DEI Offices Undoes Progress In Representation

Aarya Kale, News Editor
January 8, 2024
Working together, Lahari Gadi '26 and author Aarya Kale '26 form the FlowAware team. The FlowAware project hopes to increase public knowledge of the underlooked medical aspects of the menstrual cycle.

Promoting Period Prowess: Lahari Gadi ’26 and Aarya Kale ’26 Push For Teenage Menstrual Health

Aarya Kale, News Editor
December 29, 2023
Smiling for a team photo, Warrior Pride members decorate sugar cookies together to celebrate the holidays. The team hosted a festive party during their midterm block, conducting various fun activities such as cookie-decorating and a Kahoot featuring fun facts about each member. "I think it was a great end to a busy semester," Pride member Anamitra Ghosh '26 said. "I had a good time relaxing amidst finals week."

Warrior Pride Hosts End-Of-Semester Holiday Party

Aarya Kale, News Editor
December 20, 2023

Building a Legacy: Girls Soccer Captain Paula Marza Reflects on Her Time with the Team

Aarya Kale, News Editor
December 1, 2023
A rapidly growing and heavily overlooked issue, cultural appropriation has been rooted in the fashion industry for many decades. A degradation of all that fashion stands for and it’s self-expression centered nature, cultural appropriation commercializes traditionally significant wear. However, as the search for true inclusivity continues, it’s important that the industry recognizes the true purpose of fashion and champions the minorities that want to step up and craft pieces that reflect the true essence of their culture.

Cultural Appropriation Degrades the Essence of Fashion

Aarya Kale, News Editor
November 25, 2023
A school-wide paper shortage swept across Westwood right at the beginning of this school year. The lack of paper and limited supplies available led to many teachers being forced to find other, typically virtual alternatives, leaving lasting consequences on students' learning.

Paper Shortage Pushes Allocational and Educational Boundaries

Aarya Kale, News Editor
November 1, 2023
Looking to the right, Annika Anumalla '25 dances on the field alongside the SunDancers.

Hard at Work for Homecoming

Aarya Kale, News Editor
October 15, 2023
The hit series Gilmore Girls is known for its iconic New England autumn scenery, and Austinies can enjoy similar fall activities with these recommendations.

How to be a Gilmore Girl in Austin

Aarya Kale, News Editor
October 14, 2023
Though a growing diverse American society may imply otherwise, banned books are steadily on the rise. In addition to reflecting one of the most widespread forms of censorship in the nation, banned books also undermine education by hindering the youth generation from being able to make educated decisions.

Banning Books Poses A Threat to American Culture and Education

Aarya Kale, News Editor
October 11, 2023
Milo Garcia '25 launches into the air to smash the incoming ball. Garcia played with some caution having suffered a broken wrist earlier in the year.

JV Orange Tennis Emerges Triumphant Over Georgetown in Last Game of the Season

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 21, 2023
On Aug. 23, 2023 India's Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed on the moon, marking both the world's 4th time landing on the moon, as well as the 1st landing on the lunar south pole.

India’s Successful Lunar Mission Lights Up Future of Space Exploration

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 11, 2023
Grinning, Sophia Huang '24 raises her hands with grace in the pom dance.

Warrior Pride Wows Audience at First Halftime Performance of Season

Aarya Kale, News Editor
September 10, 2023
On Aug. 11, a wildfire broke out near Lakeline Boulevard, scorching trees and diverting traffic.

Wildfires Burn Imprints on the Minds of Terrified Texans

Aarya Kale, News Editor
August 25, 2023
Enthusiastically, Ian Shone '25 urges freshmen to join The Locker Club. At the Fishbowl club fair, booths ran by club offers encouraged freshmen to join student organizations and get involved on campus.

High Tide: Freshmen Swim in School Spirit at Fishbowl

Aarya Kale, News Editor
August 19, 2023
Revisting the Classics: A Deep Dive into 'Pride and Prejudice'

Revisting the Classics: A Deep Dive into ‘Pride and Prejudice’

Aarya Kale, News Editor
July 23, 2023
Top 6 Places to Visit in Austin During the Summer

Top 6 Places to Visit in Austin During the Summer

Aarya Kale, News Editor
June 28, 2023
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