The Student News Source Of Kennedy High School

Kennedy Torch
Teachers struggle to conduct day-to-day operation in the wake of a printing budget deficit.
Kennedy Teachers Face a Printing Crisis, Limited to 25 Pages Per Day
Kennedy' spring musical "Hadestown" audition camp and auditions will be held March 31 through April 2
Kennedy Theatre Department Prepares for Atypical Spring Musical Auditions
Classroom environment set to change for incoming freshmen in new Seminar Elective in the 2025-2026 school year.
Freshmen Seminar Confirmed as Elective for 2025-2026 School Year
The future of CRCSD remains uncertain as several questions are raised regarding curriculum changes.
Innovative or Ill-Conceived: College and Career Pathways Come to CRCSD
Kennedy's color guard accompanies the marching band's show "Shattered" with technicolor flags.
Winter Color Guard Places Third on 3/9
Taking a shot on goal, freshman Bibek Magar looks to get his first goal on the season.
Kennedy Varsity Soccer Begins Season With Tie Against Waterloo West
Intercepting the ball, sophomore Gracie Feltes breaks free from the Xavier opponent.
Photos: Varsity Girls Soccer Jamboree
Senior Trey McKowen receives the Boys Basketball State Qualifier banner from Kennedy athletic director Shawn Thomsen.
Kennedy Varsity Boys Basketball: A Season of Growth
Throughout Meredith Kaump's wrestling season she has had support from her friends and family.
Meredith Kaump Places Sixth at Girls State Wrestling
Senior Ella Moser Hits 1,000 Points In Her High School Basketball Career.
Senior Ella Moser Hits 1,000 Points In Her High School Basketball Career.
This is an editorial cartoon that is addressing the current paper shortage going on at Kennedy High School. Hence why Mike from the office is talking to Kline, because he owns a paper company. This is a comedic take on the current dilemma that our school is facing.
Editorial Cartoon: Got Paper?
The new "drag" ban bill (HF891) that is currently under review originally targeted drag shows by stating if a minor attended or viewed the performance, all parties involved could be charged with a felony. The restriction now concerns anyone who allows/performs an "obscene performance" in front of a minor, but the word obscene is subjective and leaves the law up to interpretation.
Editorial Cartoon: To Be or Not To Be Obscene
"Mufasa" succeeds in conveying the story of Simbas father from the original "Lion King".
Mufasa Makes a Splash in the Box Office
TikTok is a time sink for a number of users, designed to be addicting.
The TikTok Time-Bomb
As the political climate shifts, so does that of education.
Editorial Cartoon: A Shifting Stance on Education
DnD Club Engages Students in Cult Classic Game Dungeons and Dragons
DnD Club Engages Students in Cult Classic Game Dungeons and Dragons
Kennedy High School participates in an annual student exchange with a school in Japan.
Bridging Cultures: Japanese Exchange Students Experience Student Life at Kennedy
Speech members celebrate after receiving their scores.
Large-Group Speech Season Wraps Up in Ames
Kennedy's Model UN Provides Diplomatic Opportunities for Students
Kennedy’s Model UN Provides Diplomatic Opportunities for Students
Instructor Brain Jeffords adds weight to a bridge.
Photos: Kennedy’s Project Lead the Way Experiments with Engineering and Construction
Throughout Meredith Kaump's wrestling season she has had support from her friends and family.
Meredith Kaump Places Sixth at Girls State Wrestling
Junior, Kennedy girl's wrestler, Olivia Hallam who has recently earned a state title.
Olivia Hallam Ranks Fourth at Girls State Wrestling
Senior Eliana Hansen has completed in pageants since 2021.
Elíana Hansen: Finding Confidence in Pageantry
Freshman Bentley Dill runs down the court while protecting the ball.
Freshman Bentley Dill Joins Kennedy Girls Basketball
Tackling a Davenport North player, Henry Wilkes nears the 50 yard line.
Henry Wilkes: Students, Athlete, Musician
Torch Out Loud, the Kennedy Torch podcast, presents a new episode.
Torch Out Loud: Moonlight Express on Jazz Choir at Kennedy
All- State qualifiers of Speech and Improv before performing last month.
Kennedy’s All-State Speech and Improv Team Perform in Showcase
Kennedy' spring musical "Hadestown" audition camp and auditions will be held March 31 through April 2
Kennedy Theatre Department Prepares for Atypical Spring Musical Auditions
Happiness, Inc. members portray the father (senior Avery Theis) and son (junior Saul Ervin) in the choir's show.
Varsity Show Choir ‘Happiness’ Season Recap
Kennedy's color guard accompanies the marching band's show "Shattered" with technicolor flags.
Winter Color Guard Places Third on 3/9
Taking a shot on goal, freshman Bibek Magar looks to get his first goal on the season.
Kennedy Varsity Soccer Begins Season With Tie Against Waterloo West
Senior Trey McKowen receives the Boys Basketball State Qualifier banner from Kennedy athletic director Shawn Thomsen.
Kennedy Varsity Boys Basketball: A Season of Growth
During the national anthem, the Kennedy basketball team stands together.
Photos: Kennedy Varsity Boys Basketball Defeats Waterloo West on February 24
Elevating above the Xavier opponent, McKowen looks to hit a three from deep.
Photos: Kennedy Varsity Boys Basketball Defeats Xavier on January 31
Freshman Wrigley Davidson looks to pass the ball to freshman August Wilkes.
Photos: Freshman Boys Basketball Defeated by Xavier on January 30
The Student News Source Of Kennedy High School

Kennedy Torch
The Student News Source Of Kennedy High School

Kennedy Torch
Jersey Bilyeu

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor

Hi, my name is Jersey, I’m currently a senior and this is my third year in Torch. Outside of Torch, I’m in marching, jazz and the wind symphony bands. I’m also involved in stage and show choir tech.

All content by Jersey Bilyeu
Representatives discuss college options at the annual Kennedy Open House.

College Visits: Preparing for the Future

Jersey Bilyeu and Maggie Goldberg
August 14, 2024
Senior Safal Bhattarai participates in the 'Best Outfit' challenge at a pep rally.

We Did It, Safal.

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor
July 25, 2024
Senior cross country representatives Ben Knipfer, Alex Volden, and Kyler Zimmerman (left to right) walk the parade.

Celebrating Kennedy’s Seniors

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor
June 10, 2024
Makeup products found in shambles in beauty stores around the nation. Social media has turned to the younger generation as blame.

[Photo] Sephora Kids: Are Kids Nowadays Growing Up “Too Fast”?

Annabelle Ovel, Writer
February 15, 2024
The internet becomes a darker place everyday. The line between jokes and reality is being blurred.

Desensitization of a Generation

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor
February 10, 2024
Kennedy's Dance team performs at halftime on October 20.

Photos: Student Life at Kingston and Fall Sports Senior Night on October 20

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
October 23, 2023
In a world full of unspoken topics, there's an important topic often left undiscussed.

To Poop or Not to Poop: Should That Really Be a Question?

Jersey Bilyeu and Sonja Woerner
November 17, 2023
Photos: Sophomore Football Takes On Davenport North Wildcats

Photos: Sophomore Football Takes On Davenport North Wildcats

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor
October 24, 2023
Cedar Rapids Marcus Theater. A popular place to see the many live action remakes and un orginal ideas.

The Stories That Just Won’t Die

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
October 17, 2023
Freshman Mirabelle Sackerfield plays trumpet for Kennedy Band.

Traditions On and Off the Field

Jersey Bilyeu, Copy Editor
September 1, 2023
Cougars raise a sign during an outdoor pep assembly.

Quiz: Which Student Section Theme Are You?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
August 11, 2023
Gov. Kim Reynolds gives the Condition of the State address to members of the Iowa Legislature inside the House Chamber, on Tuesday evening, Jan. 10, 2023, at the Iowa State Capitol, in Des Moines.

Quiz: Which Reynolds Article Are You?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
July 14, 2023
Quiz: Which Public Pool Are You?

Quiz: Which Public Pool Are You?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
June 30, 2023
Quiz: What Should You Do This Weekend?

Quiz: What Should You Do This Weekend?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
June 16, 2023
Quiz: Which AP Class Should You Take?

Quiz: Which AP Class Should You Take?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
June 2, 2023
Former Kennedy Orchestral members pose for a photo.

Music of the Cougars

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
May 23, 2023
Senior Charlotte Ottemoeller plays alto saxophone for Kennedy Marching Band's 2022-2023 show, "Black Widow."

Senior Charlotte Ottemoeller Takes The Field

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
May 18, 2023
In the song "Cell Block Tango", dancers use jail bars as props.

Quiz: Which Chicago Character Are You?

Jersey Bilyeu, Creator
April 21, 2023
A limit is being put on children's learning throughout Iowa.

Another Attack on the LGBTQ Community

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
April 18, 2023
HyVee employs numerous Kennedy students as an entry level position.

[Photo] Senate File 167 Changes Iowa’s Child Labor Laws

Samuella Kasha, Writer
April 19, 2023
Protesters show support for Iowa's transgender youth in light of recent governmental changes.

Iowa, What Are We Doing?

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
April 3, 2023
Chad Aldis in an interview, claiming to be an expert on charter schools.

New Iowa Board of Education Director Appointed With No Experience in Public Education

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
March 30, 2023
Sophomore Amelia Gilbert plays the marimba at the band carnival.

Indoor Percussion and Winter Guard Take to the Gym

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
March 17, 2023
The crowded halls of Kennedy High School.

A Foyer That Feels Like A Mosh Pit

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
February 22, 2023
Senior Kenzie Reed ninking a 3 point shot

Photos: Boys’ Basketball Dominates Waterloo West

Isaac White and Jersey Bilyeu
February 6, 2023
The Future With Kim

The Future With Kim

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
January 12, 2023
Students can use Cougar Advisory to voice their opinion on a variety of topics like curriculum or other activities.

[Photo] The Return of Cougar Advisory

Joshua Barker, Writer
November 29, 2022
Tony Vis watches as Kennedy competes during a basketball game.

[Photo] Tony Vis: His Love for the Game

Rowan Hesford, Writer
November 28, 2022
Andy Courtney coaches the girls' team during a time out.

The Return of Coach Courtney

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
November 22, 2022
Noreen worked to meet the needs of everyone around her as superintendent. She met others with love and compassion.

It’s “Just Noreen”

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
November 16, 2022
Boy's Cross Country placed eight at state meet over the weekend.

[Photo] Boys’ Cross Country Concludes 2022 Season at State

Emma Beachner, Writer
November 2, 2022
Happiness Inc. singers having fun during rehearsal while preparing for their competition season.

Raise The Roof: A Beloved Kennedy Event, Canceled.

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
November 1, 2022
Art Sathoff will be the interim superintendent.

New CRCSD Superintendent Announced 10/26

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer, Photographer
October 28, 2022
Miles Wilson races to the finish line at Seminole Valley.

[Photo] Boy’s Cross Country Heads To State After a Record Breaking Season

Emma Beachner, Writer
October 28, 2022
Storm Ziegler directs the Kennedy Chamber Choir

Kennedy Choir Holds A Concert On October 18

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
October 21, 2022
Meet The New Faces At Kennedy

Meet The New Faces At Kennedy

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
October 18, 2022
Photos: Kennedys Cross Country Teams Host A Meet At Seminole Valley Park

Photos: Kennedys Cross Country Teams Host A Meet At Seminole Valley Park

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
September 26, 2022
Kennedy's art classrooms are full to bursting with students developing their creativity skills.

The Struggle of the Arts

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
September 19, 2022
The Kennedy Girls Varsity Volleyball team getting each other excited for their match.

Photos: Kennedy Girls Varsity Volleyball Holds A Mental Health Rally With The “I’m Glad You Stayed” Project.

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
September 9, 2022
Mrs. Gibney Holds A Personalized Graduation For Her Students

Mrs. Gibney Holds A Personalized Graduation For Her Students

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
May 25, 2022
Jake Hemann helps a student during one of his classes.

[Photo] Project Lead the Way: Introducing Students to STEM

Sonja Woerner, Writer
July 20, 2022
Brian Stubblefield shows off one of the hand-made electric cars in Barry Wilson’s classroom.

[Photo] Speeding Through Senior Year

Jasmine Hite, Writer
June 8, 2022
Don Dixson stands surrounded by his art. From left to right: Dancin' Iris, No Rhythm and Glory to Ukraine.

[Photo] Don Dixson: Sewing Seeds

Joel Dillman, Writer
May 25, 2022
Ellie Wilkes works behind the scenes of Kennedy's 2022 production of Matilda.

The Whirlwind Life of Boring Ellie

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
May 23, 2022
tarongeters

[Photo] Fashion Forward

Lizzy Hawkes, Writer
July 6, 2022
Questions are being raised about the right way to go about abortions.

What’s Happening to Women’s Rights?

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
May 17, 2022
Kennedy Girls Golf Team Competed On May 11

Kennedy Girls Golf Team Competed On May 11

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
May 16, 2022
Performance PE is designed to be taken by athletes for PE credits.

We’re Overworking Students

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
April 4, 2022
Photos: Orchestra Performs in Solo and Ensemble Concert

Photos: Orchestra Performs in Solo and Ensemble Concert

Merideth Langton and Jersey Bilyeu
April 1, 2022
Womens History Month has a rich history that should be recognized and remembered.

A Month to Celebrate Women

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
March 28, 2022
Levi Hodge, so., gets ready for the orchestra concert on Oct 28

Solo and Ensemble Contests Taking Place in Early April

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
March 26, 2022
Photos: Boys Basketball Senior Night and Game Against Cedar Falls

Photos: Boys Basketball Senior Night and Game Against Cedar Falls

Merideth Langton and Jersey Bilyeu
February 23, 2022
Kennedy Girls JV2 Basketball Plays Jefferson On Feb 11

Kennedy Girls JV2 Basketball Plays Jefferson On Feb 11

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
February 14, 2022
2022 ACTs To Be Held March 29

2022 ACTs To Be Held March 29

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
February 11, 2022
Free Prom Dresses Available at Gown Town

Free Prom Dresses Available at Gown Town

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
February 8, 2022
Junior Lucas Dolphin was nominated for athlete of the week.

Junior Lucas Dolphin Nominated for Athlete of the Week

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
February 2, 2022
The new pass policy requires teachers to have a hall pass, a restroom pass and a sign-out sheet in their classrooms.

New Pass Policy Regulates Student Break Times

Jersey Bilyeu, Lizzy Hawkes, and Kymburlee Vanover
January 28, 2022
Happiness Inc. performs at Kennedy premiere show.

Kennedy Show Choirs Start Their Competitive Season

Jersey Bilyeu and Molly Martin
January 7, 2022
Mask mandates are once again allowed in Iowa schools.

Pfizer Vaccine Boosters Approved for Ages 12 to 15

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
January 6, 2022
Ethan Head gets ready to perform in Macy's Great American Marching Band

Senior Ethan Head Marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer, Photographer
December 8, 2021
Linn-Mar's Spectrum Club put up posters around the school for Transgender Awareness Week.

Linn-Mar Students Hold Walkout During Transgender Awareness Week

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
November 19, 2021
bus-TF

[Photo] CRCSD Experiences a Bus Driver Shortage

Ava Schadt, Writer
November 15, 2021
Kennedy Finishes as Quarterfinalists in the Class 5A Playoffs

Kennedy Finishes as Quarterfinalists in the Class 5A Playoffs

Jersey Bilyeu and Isaac White
November 12, 2021
A Look Into the October 28 Orchestra Concert

A Look Into the October 28 Orchestra Concert

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
November 2, 2021
The Cedar Rapids School District suffers a school bus shortage.

[Photo] The Impact of Bus Driver Shortages on Cedar Rapids Community School District

February 6, 2024
Winter Sports Are About to Begin

Winter Sports Are About to Begin

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
October 28, 2021
Iowa All-State Auditions Come to a Close

Iowa All-State Auditions Come to a Close

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
October 26, 2021
The Kennedy Marching Band Season Comes to an End

The Kennedy Marching Band Season Comes to an End

Jersey Bilyeu, Writer
October 26, 2021
Kennedy Choir Performs on October 14

Kennedy Choir Performs on October 14

Jersey Bilyeu, Photographer
October 20, 2021
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