(no title)

Prosser offers real world experiences

by Gabriella Kraft

Prosser is a Career Education Center where Southern Indiana students can go to receive additional education or a degree for free through high school without attending college. Those who apply and get accepted excel by learning skills in their desired field. Prosser offers many classes and pathways, and students apply because their high school doesn’t offer a specific class for that pathway, or it isn’t in-depth enough.

Business Academy counselor Shelby McCorkle said Prosser offers many different programs.

“They offer 20-21 different programs, and they each have dual credit attached to them. It’s a little different depending on what program you’re in. You can apply as a sophomore, you need a letter of recommendation, a goal statement, to be on track with your credits, and good attendance. It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on experience, but it’s not for everybody,” she said.

Junior Graciela Sanchez studies Cosmetology and finds Prosser a great opportunity to better her education and get her life ready after high school.

“I can get my cosmetology license and go straight into work while I also still plan to go to college and study elementary education,” she said.

Life at Prosser isn’t the same for everybody. Most people love it, and some people do not, but the opportunities teens get while there exceed everything — the good and the bad, according to junior Jaylianah Burris.

“I love it. I like all of the different opportunities I am able to have. I plan to become an orthodontist, so Dental is a huge staple while at Prosser,” she said.

Prosser not only supports career choices; it also helps prepare students for higher education and real life. For example, junior Samantha Carillo studies Early Childhood Psychology.

“I’m going into early childhood psychology and not education because I want to help kids with their social-emotional learning more than their education. Prosser helps teach me how kids are affected in their early years and how to help/prevent certain childhood problems,” she said.

Prosser students prepare for a variety of careers; for example, junior Lorelei Darling studies Culinary Arts, junior Jacob Fifer studies Automotive Mechanical, and junior Brayden Bachman studies Constructional Electrical Trades.

“I love my Prosser class because I get to learn how to cook; it has exceeded my expectations. I want to be a private chef, so it’s very beneficial for my career choice,” Darling said.

“It’s very easy managing my time since I finish my homework in class,” added Fifer.

Additionally, Bachman said, “Prosser is great — I love how it’s hands-on, and you meet tons of people. It’s easy to manage your time as long as you stay on top of your work.”

Life at Prosser is a logical choice for students who want to stay ahead of the game. It may not be for everyone, but it is a great opportunity that prepares teens for careers after high school.

24 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Digital Dispatch Sept. 23,2026

Spanish teacher Margarita Mackle teaches pronouns to the class. “I’ve been teaching for 10 years and I like teaching because when the student understands and being able to say it back to me, that makes me feel happy,” she said. Photo by Kayleen Alvarado.

24 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Choir entertains community during annual Gospelfest

All photos by Malachi Conrad and Parker McCloskey.

Senior Sire Minggia sings at Gospelfest last Thursday. Photo by Parker McCloskey.

23 Sep 202629 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Championship Victory

Red Devils defeat New Albany 2-1 last night to win Hoosier Hills Conference

Photos by Malachi Conrad and Parker McCloskey. Additional reporting by Austin Bainbridge.

Junior Dylan Ortiz listens to Coach Colin Bell’s speech before the first half. Photo by Parker McCloskey.

23 Sep 202623 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Behind the Scenes

Drew Davis uses soccer to teach life lessons

by Louis Stifler

Junior varsity soccer coach Drew Davis crouches down on to the ground to discuss the product of the half with his team. He describes how their Evansville Reitz opponents play and the weakness his players may leverage for their success and what they might improve on in the next half.

“He tells me what to do and we just win games and that’s what it’s all about,” said freshman Ryan McKinley, a JV soccer starter.

Not only does he help them on the field but he teaches them other lessons, especially off the field.

“It’s teaching them to work with others and learning that you won’t win everything, but if you stay the course with the right game plan you will be successful in life,” recounted Davis. “It teaches discipline and responsibility in that you sacrifice stuff for others.”

Coach Davis has been in the soccer program for 13 years. He has also coached at several other schools and played during his high school years.

“I would say when I started to get to high school and would watch games with friends it was more than anything I could really imagine,” remarked Davis.

Out of all the years, though, Coach Davis said that this year is different for the soccer program.

“I think that this team from top to bottom is the best team since I have been here. It’s a marriage of skill and belief,” stated Davis.

Junior varsity soccer coach Drew Davis instructs freshman Ryan McKinley during the Providence game. Photo by Louis Stifler.

This team seems to have something different to it that both the coaches and the players see.

“It is a lot more accepting and a lot more people have come out,” said sophomore JV player Ryland Prichard.

The atmosphere of the teams signifies that there is a different fire this year. Over the years it was building up. The coaches can feel it, and so can the players.

“My goal would one day to be fighting for a state title. You do that by not just winning games, but getting good grades, being a leader,on and off the field, and just being a role model,” stated Davis.

This soccer program has improved under all of those who support it.

Davis said the JHS soccer success has been special, especially in “the years when JV had an undefeated season — which I never thought I’d do — and the varsity season last year as we went as far as I did as a player.”

Coach Davis has brought this program back up higher than ever and he plans to bring it even higher as a teacher, a leader, but especially as a coach.

“I love coaching because I enjoy giving back to others and watching them enjoy the experience I got out of the sport and being a part of a building project, watching it grow and get.”

Freshman Camron Bell chases his soccer dreams

by Javian DeLa Luz Garcia

Freshman Camron Bell listens intently as head coach Drew Davis instructs the players on what to do during practice.

“I look forward to scoring a lot of goals and making it to sectionals and regionals,” said Bell. He is a part of the junior varsity JHS soccer team. He hopes to be a regular starter in junior varsity, and eventually be a part of the varsity soccer squad.

“I’m proud of how far I made it in soccer, because the level I am at is extremely difficult and hard,” said Bell.

He is a normal kid. He goes to school and he hangs out with his friends; however; one of his main aspects in life is playing soccer. His main passion in life is playing soccer.

“I strive to go pro because it is my dream. It is my passion, I love this sport and I want to go pro in it,” said Bell.

Though he strives to go pro now, he has always had a passion for soccer from an early age.

“When I was three years old, my mom wanted me to try out a sport, so I chose soccer.”

After choosing soccer Bell has fallen in love with the sport of soccer ever since. His coach, Davis, is the one who trains Bell and the JV team.

“I think that he is not someone who tiptoes into challenges. He throws himself into challenges. He puts 110% effort in all factors of the game,” said coach Davis.

Freshman Camron Bell. Photo by Mason McGuire.

Freshman Cayden Stolte, Bell’s teammate, agreed with Davis, describing him as a good goalscorer for the team.

Although his life mostly consists of sports he also gives effort into school. Bell has to be on top of his school work to be able to play in this soccer team. The school has requirements to be able to play in a school team.

“Nothing below a D and if you have a D you have to have no missing assignments,” said Bell.

Having to deal with both his school and athlete life, Bell finds himself sometimes being overwhelmed by the pressure.

“Balancing them both is hard… because you have to get good grades and study and sometimes they interfere. I study at home, get good grades, and go out and play on the field,” said Bell.

It’s this philosophy that drives Bell towards success in the sport of soccer.

“Never give up, chase your dreams no matter the setbacks. And that life will get hard, just never stop trying.”

23 Sep 202623 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Organizations help raise awareness during National Suicide Prevention Month

by Harper Gordon and Jilliann Denbo

September is designated as National Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and share life-saving mental health resources. Statistics from the CDC show that over 49,000 people die by suicide annually in the United States. Suicidal thoughts appear more often than most think; we all need to look out for and help others no matter what. Luckily, many help lines and organizations are available whenever we need them.

¨Organizations like SAMHSA and NAMI use September to teach warning signs, promote evidence-based treatment, and remind people that support is available 24/7,¨ stated the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Mental health is something that is treated as such a taboo subject, but it shouldn’t be. It’s something people struggle with every day, and it should be normalized to talk about it.

“Suicide is still too often met with silence, stigma, or shame. At NAMI, we believe that silence should never be the response to someone’s pain. That’s why we’re working tirelessly to change that. This September, you can be the difference,” stated the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Sources for help can remain completely anonymous, meaning the people helping will not need to know names unless the caller is in complete danger.

¨The purpose of 988 is to provide a free, confidential, 24/7 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress, emotional crisis, or substance use issues,¨ stated SAMHSA.

We must never be afraid to ask for or get help when we need it most. Always look out for people struggling; they’re most likely a lot closer than we think.

My name is Jilliann Denbo, and I used to struggle with many thoughts of suicide. I never felt like I belonged anywhere and that every single person was against me; even my parents.

I never understood what reaching out for help would mean; I always thought I was weak or not worthy of life if I actually asked for help. When my mental health started to get noticeably bad, my parents asked if I was okay. I denied it until I couldn’t anymore, which made almost everything much worse. But when I finally accepted help, the weight lifted off my chest; I could talk to people who could help me get back on the right path. With the help I received, I could breathe again. I will forever be grateful for the people who were right by my side to make sure everything was okay.

While talking to someone may seem awful, it truly is the right thing to do, no matter what it is. There is always someone to reach out to.

My name is Harper Gordon. I used to struggle heavily with suicidal ideation. I thought I had no belonging anywhere, and I constantly felt alone. In eighth grade, my best friend Dorothy unexpectedly passed away.

After that, I thought there was no getting better; I lost my person, and I constantly felt disconnected from everything. I always tried to act okay and act like I wasn’t struggling. I didn’t want anyone to worry about me; I always felt like everyone else had bigger problems. My family and friends eventually started noticing how much I was struggling. They all tried to help, but I pushed them away because I thought I’d be better without their help.

I wasn’t ready to admit I needed help; I didn’t want to admit it. But in the end, when I realized we can’t get better without help. When I needed them, they were all still there.

Never be scared to reach out and ask for help; someone’s always there.

¨If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States and Canada,¨ stated News Center.

22 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Floyd Central defeats Red Devils 42-0 on Friday

JHS to face Connersville this Friday

All photos by Malachi Conrad and Eva Harbeson.

Senior Darryl’ron Guy catches the football with one hand during pregame warmups before the Floyd Central game. Photo by Eva Harbeson.

22 Sep 202629 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Food pantry provides important resources to students

by Kori Washington

For some students, getting through the school day isn’t just about worrying about grades and homework. They may worry about their next meal or if they even have decent clothes to wear the next day.

That’s where JHS Connor’s Closet and Food Pantry comes in, giving students the resources they need and minimizing some of their stress.

Though the school has offered these resources for many years, many students still don’t know they are available.

“I wish more students could have access to it. We tried to start a Google Form last year, where students could send in the food they needed, but not many students knew,” said food pantry sponsor Michelle Houchin.

Food pantry sponsor Michelle Houchin makes sure the pantry is well stocked during a sixth-hour inspection. The pantry serves all JHS students. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.

For families facing financial challenges, these resources can give support when everyday necessities become hard to afford.

“If families face hardships and can’t afford clothes, this is an opportunity to help our students and their families. And the same goes for the food pantry, especially with prices going up; we just don’t ever want kids or their families to go hungry,” said principal Pam Hall.

But for many staff members, providing these resources isn’t just about feeding and clothing them; it’s about seeing the difference they can make in their lives when they just give them a little help.

“The most rewarding part is seeing the families that we helped supply food for a month or two while parents got back up on their feet come back and are usually the first to give back,” said Hall.

While having these resources can make a big difference for families having financial issues, not having them can affect students beyond their lives at home.

“Students may not have the time or resources to purchase items or receive basic needs. This closet can help alleviate daily stress, anxiety, or the uncertainty of challenges that present themselves without having to leave school,” said Connor’s Closet sponsor Jennifer Mitchell.

But having these resources doesn’t mean that students always feel comfortable asking for them. Some may feel ashamed or embarrassed, but the staff is here to make it as discreet and as comfortable as possible.

Food pantry sponsor Michelle Houchin stocks the shelves with ramen noodles and peanut butter. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.

“I know a face-to-face conversation might be difficult for a lot of students. So they could email a trusted teacher or somebody that they have a connection with. Teachers are not going to judge you for not having access to food,” said Houchin.

These resources do more than just provide students and families with food and clothing — they help take away challenges that can make it hard for students to focus on school.

“If you’re hungry, you want to be able to concentrate. It can make you tired and can make you grouchy. It makes it even harder to be a student when you don’t have access to food or clean clothes,” said Houchin.

While these resources have already made a difference in many student’s lives, Hall plans to add more resources to give students even more support.

“One thing I would love for us to open is a laundromat here on campus that students could use sometimes. I would love to get that up and running because, you know, laundry is expensive, and not everybody’s home has a working washer and dryer,” said Hall.

21 Sep 202621 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Digital Dispatch Sept. 17, 2026

Biology teacher Austyn Merkle explains the work in his fourth-period class. “I’ve been teaching for four years, and I love teaching because every day, it’s something different,” said Merkle. Photo by Kayleen Alvarado.

18 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Digital Dispatch Sept. 17, 2026

Science and biology teacher Francesca Hernandez helps a student on a map for the class assignment on Thursday. “I’ve been teaching for six years and I love getting everyone interested and involved in their environment and natural world,” she said. Photo by Kayleen Alvarado.

17 Sep 202617 Sep 2026 by jhshyphen

Briscoe’s influence reaches beyond the court

Volleyball coach uses athletics to teach life lessons

by Bryce Treat

For coach Wes Briscoe, volleyball is about more than winning games. As the JHS head boys’ and girls’ volleyball coach, he focuses on helping athletes grow through challenges, build confidence, and become the best versions of themselves.

Now in his ninth season coaching the girls’ volleyball program, Briscoe believes growth happens when athletes push beyond their comfort zones. His philosophy is reflected in one phrase that players across the program immediately recognize: “Be a jungle tiger.”

Coach Wes Briscoe talks to the team after the first set against New Albany Tuesday night. Photo by Logan Vidt.

His coaching journey began long before arriving at JHS. As a high school student, Briscoe helped coach youth sports before taking his first official coaching position at Corydon Central. Through those experiences, he learned that no two athletes are exactly alike.

“It’s more about knowing what the specific athlete needs and coaching them to be the best version of themselves,” he said.

Briscoe often encourages athletes to embrace difficult situations rather than avoid them. He believes the most growth occurs when players are willing to challenge themselves and learn from mistakes.

That message has stuck with many of his athletes. Junior Samantha Dues explained that one of Briscoe’s most important lessons is that mistakes are part of the learning process.

“He reiterates how we all make mistakes, but we know how to learn from them,” Dues said.

Briscoe’s focus on growth extends beyond volleyball skills. One of the most important lessons he shares with athletes is simple:

“Doing the right thing is never the wrong thing.” He hopes players carry that lesson with them long after their playing days are over.

Junior Ryder Lott described Briscoe’s coaching style as a balance between giving players independence and helping them improve when needed. More importantly, Lott said Briscoe stands out because of the connections he builds with athletes.

“He has a relationship with all the players. He cares about all his players,” Lott said.

The culture Briscoe has created within the volleyball program extends beyond practices and matches. Dues noted that after every match, players are encouraged to compliment a teammate, even after a loss. The tradition helps build team chemistry and reminds players to support one another regardless of the outcome.

Junior Caeley McDaniel described practices as strict but encouraging. She credits Briscoe with helping her stay motivated and encouraging her to be kinder to others. She describes Briscoe in three words: “loud, determined, and spunky.”

When adversity strikes, Briscoe encourages athletes to persevere rather than give up. His influence can also be seen in the confidence he gives his players. Dues recalled a memorable moment during her sophomore season when he trusted her to contribute during sectionals despite having less experience than some of her teammates.

“He had the confidence in me to perform for my team during sectionals, even when I had less experience than the others,” she said.

For junior Caleb Solmon, Briscoe’s success is evident in the growth of the program itself. Watching varsity players develop has motivated him to improve his own game, and he said Briscoe has helped transform inexperienced athletes into successful competitors.

“He’s made people who have never played volleyball become state contenders,” Solmon said.

Of course, players also remember Briscoe’s lighter moments. Solmon recalled one memorable incident when a player had to run 35 laps after catching the volleyball twice during a game, a story that has become part of team lore.

Whether he’s reminding athletes to be a “jungle tiger,” encouraging teammates to support one another, or helping players develop confidence in themselves, Briscoe’s impact extends far beyond volleyball. Through his leadership, Red Devil athletes continue to grow not only as players, but as people.