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The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

Archives 2022-2023

With the option of an open lunch many students choose to visit surrounding establishments. Neighboring businesses have expressed concerns about shoplifting, fighting, vandalism and drug use.

NEWS: Reports of Vandalism of Local Businesses

Tommy Taylor March 20, 2023

During every lunch period, a number of students leave the school and get lunch and return without issue. However, administration has reported that students have caused harm to surrounding businesses during...

FEATURE: Teachers quitting

FEATURE: Teachers quitting

Conrad Hill March 9, 2023

Last year, agriculture teacher Allyson Gillmore left her position to pursue an offer at another school. As a result, the club she was sponsoring, Future Farmers of America, could no longer continue without...

REVIEW: A Different Drummer

REVIEW: A Different Drummer

Alicia Narum March 9, 2023

It’s June of 1957 in a fictional state in the South; the remaining residents of Sutton frantically gossip trying to understand the recent events which suddenly made all African American residents...

After discovering a murder on the Orient Express, Monsieur Bouc, played by sophomore Cooper-Atlas Hefty, calls for help. Although being involved since fifth grade, their theater experience was brought to a halt during the pandemic. “I missed the feeling of theater and how fun it was,” Hefty said.

FEATURE: Murder on the Orient Express

Maura Langland March 9, 2023

On March 3 and 4, the theater department put on “Murder on the Orient Express” with new director Bryce Jones. Jones is making the transition from assistant director to head of the theater department...

Although the school’s devices have this website banned, it is available for students to access on other devices. This exhibits how student integrity can be challenged when considering the completely open access to anything at the touch of a button.

FEATURE: ChatGPT creating conversation inside classrooms

Lilly Wall March 8, 2023

In the pinch of needing to meet an essay deadline or finding starting points for an assignment, many students have begun to rely on the rising AI-Powered chatbot, ChatGPT.  ChatGPT, developed by the...

Following an intense storm, Free State is covered in a blanket of snow. Although roads were slick, school continued and students and staff carefully made their way through the snow and ice.

FEATURE: Icy Injuries

Greyson Heiman March 8, 2023

On the way to school Thursday Feb. 16, senior Jada Fowler lost control of her car due to ice and slid off the road up onto a curb. Immediately after, Fowler called her mother sobbing because she was terrified...

The Scholar’s Bowl team shows off their fourth place medals at the state competition on Feb. 11. As coach of the team, Oather Strawderman enjoyed seeing the students be successful and take pride in their accomplishments. “They should be really proud of themselves because the 6A Scholar’s Bowl is a really tough, competitive environment,” Strawderman said. “They did really well.”

FEATURE: Scholars Bowl Soars to State

Evie Chancy March 7, 2023

After months of practice, the Firebird Scholars Bowl team traveled to Washburn Rural High School where they placed fourth in the Kansas State High School Activities Association [KSHSAA] state championship....

Starting strong, sophomore Brylee Burns strides out during the beginning of the race. Burns made huge leaps this season and helped to lead the girls team to a successful season with her individual 9th place at state. "My favorite part of the season was doing long runs with my best friends," Burns said.

SPORTS: Recognition at the Highest Level

Thomas Patton March 7, 2023

Four Free State cross-country runners received a nomination for Northeast Kansas High School Runner of the Year. “They run year-round and don't miss many days and are always willing to go that extra...

REVIEW: Good Riddance

REVIEW: Good Riddance

Mallory Thompson March 7, 2023

Before Gracie Abrams hit the road to open for Taylor Swift on her upcoming “The Eras Tour,” Abrams released her debut album, “Good Riddance.” Produced by Aaron Dessner, this album holds musical...

Going for the pin, freshman Ava Corbin takes down her opponent. Although unsure at the beginning of her season, Corbin has grown to love the sport. “My friends were doing it and I joined as a joke,” Corbin said. “But then I started to really love it as a sport. [I’m] definitely going to continue to do it next year and the years to come.”

SPORTS: The Face of the Future

Nick Sprecker March 7, 2023

Every sports program needs a blueprint. They need a way to foster growth and a future to look forward to. That growth can come from a combination of things, but for the girls wrestling squad, freshman...

Chief Operations Officer Larry Englebrick shares a presentation slide talking about the impact of school closures.

NEWS BRIEF: School Board Makes Decisions Regarding School Closures

Cici Hunter February 28, 2023

On Monday, Feb. 27, the USD 497 Board of Education hosted a board meeting to hear administration and community input, in addition to the Future Planning Committee’s final proposal.  “We have cut,...

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