The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
Taylor Schmidt

Taylor Schmidt, Photographer

Really good at sleeping.

All content by Taylor Schmidt
The 2024 to 2025 season for Foothill Technology High School's (Foothill Tech) track and field team went incredibly well, with numerous athletes qualifying for the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section Finals, which took place at Moorpark High School on May 17, 2025. Even those who did not qualify for this event did exceptionally well, with countless Foothill Tech students achieving their personal bests in their respective events, notably with Connor Bursek '25, who beat his personal best at the 300-meter hurdle race and by doing so beat Foothill Tech's record that he already held.

[Photo] Track and Field

Dane Dodos, Reporter
June 7, 2025
Foothill Technology High School's (Foothill Tech) beach volleyball team dominated the 2024 to 2025 season, with an overall record of 12-2. This impressive season resulted in Foothill Tech's ranking in Calif. being set at 102, highlighting the teams talent and dedication to the sport of volleyball.

[Photo] Girls beach volleyball

Julia Geib, Reporter
June 4, 2025
The Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) boys' soccer team performed well throughout the 2024 to 2025 school year, placing 3rd in the Tri-Valley league with a 4-4 record. While their overall record was 7-8, the Dragons played well throughout the year, showing immense talent and dedication, with standout players such as Kaizer Castillo '28 and Stefan Hubner ‘25, who is pictured above.

[Photo] Boys soccer

Ian Toreja, Reporter
June 6, 2025
The Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) boys water polo team performed well throughout the duration of the 2024 to 2025 school year, ending up 3rd place in league. Despite their overall record of 4-12, the Dragons displayed hard work and resilience throughout the season, increasing their state ranking from the previous season by 66 places.

[Photo] Boys water polo

Ian Toreja, Reporter
June 6, 2025
On May 10, 2025 the best of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) track and field athletes, of those that qualified at the Tri-Valley League Championships the week prior, gathered together at Carpinteria High School to face off against their competing division four athletes. From here the athletes battled off to qualify for the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section Finals, which took place at Moorpark High School on May 17, 2025.

[Photo] Speed, Strength, and Surprises: Track and field power through CIF Prelims and Finals

Ian Toreja and Dane Dodos
May 20, 2025
On May 2, 2025 Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) faced off against their in-town rivals at the Ventura College Track. The teams raced in the Tri-Valley League Championships where the schools Saint Bonaventure High School, Cate High School and Bishop Garcia Diego High School were all present. Foothill Tech students raced in a wide variety of events ranging from 100 meter sprints to 3200 meter run to their multiple relays. Many of Foothill athletes reached for their goal of qualifying for California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Prelims which will be held on May 10, 2025.

[Photo] Legacy in motion: Foothill Tech takes on League Finals

Julia Geib, Reporter
May 5, 2025
Emily Turner ‘26 was casted as the main character “Regina George” in Foothill Technology High School’s (Foothill Tech) spin off play, based on the popular 2004 drama hit “Mean Girls.” With this role she obtained many singing scenes where she captivated the audience with her voice and her ability to present her character. Throughout the play she embraced the original character of “Regina George,” with outfit changes, attitude remarks, and references from the original movie.

[Photo] Foothill Tech´s Drama Club takes the stage with “Mean Girls The Musical”

Natalie St. Pierre and Aubrey Alderman
April 30, 2025
On Feb. 25, 2025 the Foothill Teconolgy High School (Foothill Tech) girls beach volleyball team faced off against Santa Clara High School (Santa Clara). The match took place at the beach volleyball courts located inside the Ventura Harbor, and was an easy win for the Dragons with a final score of 5-0. Pictured here is Samantha Jacobson '26 jumping up to the next to spike the ball over to secure the extra point for her team.

[Photo] Girls beach volleyball shuts out Santa Clara

Dane Dodos, Reporter
March 1, 2025
WORDS HERE!!

[Photo] Boys soccer eliminated in second round match against Cobalt

Conor White and Peyton Fox
February 20, 2025
On Jan. 30, 2025 family and friends gathered around the soccer field at Ventura College to support Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) senior boys on their celebratory senior night. This match was held against Bishop Garcia Diego High School (Bishop Diego) and ended in a Foothill Tech win with a final score of 3-1, making the teams league record 4-4, with a spot in the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Before the game, a ceremony was held where each senior walked down the field hand in hand with their family, while one of their coaches listed off a few fun facts about the player. The seniors that were reconsider were Julian Lopez ‘25, Stefan Hubner ‘25, Samuel Lozano ‘25, Christophe Issa ‘25, Kiran Maserang ‘25, Jaysen Fernandez ‘25, Julian Cartellieri ‘25, Connor Bursek ‘25, Ronan Murphy ‘25, Alex Sundberg ‘25 and Johann Cerda ‘25.

[Photo] Boys soccer Senior Night

Dane Dodos, Staffer
February 2, 2025
Going for the shot is number 5, Nick Turner ‘26, who is an essential part of the team. Despite the senior spotlight that was occurring on the court, during this game Turner made some great plays to help bring the team to victory. His dedication along with the rest of the team, helped bring the team to a blasting victory with a final score of 65-31.

[Photo] Girls water polo defeats Cate, 7-5 on Senior Night

Ian Toreja, Reporter
February 3, 2025
10900 Telephone Road Ventura, Calif., is home to one of many CalVet homes across California, acting as a haven for veterans to live and find community. Through the main entrance of the home before you enter the dining room, there is an honorary wall with displays of pictures showcasing the many residents that have served the United States of America. These pictures capture moments from when the residents were in service. These photos stretching the length of the wall shows how much respect and honor the home provides for the incredible people that risked their lives for their country.

[Photo] Holidays for the veterans of Ventura

Layla Solomon and Kellen Spears
January 25, 2025
From the past 20 years, Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) has been growing, and so has the sports program and it's number of athletes. Much of the student body at Foothill Tech are a part of one or more sports teams, whether it is soccer, basketball, cross country or baseball, students dedicate hours of their time to represent the school. But what is left in the shadows is what each of these student athletes do during their selected sports off-season? From extra training and hosted practices, to special recovery tactics, these Dragons commit themselves to improving their skills towards their sport even after their season has ended.

[Photo] A day in the life of the off-season athlete

Peyton Fox, Reporter
January 4, 2025
Aiden Cumming ’25 receives Athlete of the Week for his ongoing remarkable boys water polo season, where he has displayed exceptional leadership and skill as one of the captains of the water polo team. The Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) community appreciates all his hard work in representing the school.

[Photo] Athlete of the Week: Aiden Cumming

Ian Toreja, Reporter
November 11, 2024
On Oct. 15 and 17, 2024, the Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls golf team sent five players to the two-day Tri-Valley League Individual Finals. The first day took place at Olivas Links Golf course. Audrey Yoong '26 was the low score from the Dragons with a 39 on day one, just four strokes shy of the lead. Yoong’s score put her in second place going into the second day. Bella Baum '26 was the second lowest score from the team with a 44, placing third leading into the second day. Day two took place at Santa Barbara Golf Club, where Yoong fired off a 41, totalling her score to 80, securing her second place finish, making First Team All League and qualifying for California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Baum shot a 54, finishing tied for fourth and making First Team All League. The top three players in the league will advance to CIF Southern Section at Los Robles Greens on Oct. 30, 2024.

[Photo] Girls golf swings their way through League Finals

Dane Dodos, Reporter
October 22, 2024
This year for the Thriller-themed Rennannace Rally a new system was implemented, where each student was able to enter a raffle that could win them a basket with some special treats inside. During fourth period class right before lunch, a member of ASB handed out cards to each student that achieved Renaissance that quarter. On these cards were three different place holders for stamps, in which you could earn these stamps by visiting each booth and collecting that item or task. In order to fill your card you had to spin the wheel, pictured here, as well as stop by a table and collect a Shirley Temple and a cup of dirt and worms. Once you collect your stamps you could turn your card into an ASB member on the stage for a chance to win the raffle.

[Photo] Foothill Tech ASB offers a thrilling Ren Rally to cap off spirit week

Ella Asher and Bailey Basurto
October 21, 2024
On the early afternoon of Oct. 1, 2024 the Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) boys water polo team held their match against Cate School (Cate) at the Ventura Aquatic Center located inside Kimball Park. It was a tough game fought by both teams but in the end Cate took the win 10-13. Pictured here is Aiden Cumming ‘25 (number 2) reaching up to block the ball from making it to the goal, helping out the team's goalie.

[Photo] Boys water polo loses to Cate in nail-biting fashion

Dane Dodos, Reporter
October 4, 2024
Dean Liddell ‘27 (number 9) strategically passing the ball to his teammate over the opposing team's defense. Liddell plays the left wing position and was a crucial tool in order for his team to secure the win. Even though only a sophomore, his talents and skills shine through the water and reflect on the scoreboard.

[Photo] Boys water polo takes win against Villanova 9-5

Dane Dodos, Reporter
September 29, 2024
After school on Sept. 4, 2024 Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls golf team played their match against Santa Paula High School (Santa Paula) at Olivas Links Golf Course. The team played through a few good rounds in the chilly, windy afternoon, but ended up accepting the defeat in the end. Pictured is Cora Sydlaske ‘27 right after she took a shot at the ball, Sydlaske ended up shooting a 69 throughout the whole course contributing to Foothill Tech's 287 against Santa Paula’s 281.

[Photo] Recap: Girls golf defeated in a close match against Santa Paula High School

Peyton Fox, Reporter
September 26, 2024
On the blazing day of Sept. 5, 2024 the Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls golf team took their skills to Olivas Links Golf Course, against surrounding Ventura high schools. Pictured here is Bella Baum '26 kneeling down to line up her ball to achieve the perfect putt. She finished with a score of 50, having the second lowest score of the team, and contributed to the total of 274 that Foothill Tech scored. The team placed third overall behind Ventura High School (Ventura) and Saint Bonaventure High School (St. Bonnie).

[Photo] Recap: Girls golf takes third place in Ventura City Cup

Conor White, Reporter
September 7, 2024
Aug. 14, 2024 marked the first official day back to school for the 2024-2025 school year for all Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students as well as the whole Ventura Unified School District (VUSD). Students flooded the gates a few weeks earlier than anticipated due to the schedule change, which prompted a new school calendar. Nevertheless, students still arrived with all the first day jitters, new school supplies and fresh outfits to show off in this new school year. Along with this excitement, the Associated Student Body (ASB) took extra time out of their summer break to prepare the school and decorate the buildings to match the year's theme of “Year of the Records”. With posters and decorations, as well as staff members dressing up to match said theme, students were inspired for the new year even if they were not totally ready to end their summer break.

[Photo] Kicking off the first day: Foothill Tech prepares for a record-breaking year

Maggie Lay, Ella Asher, Shea Stevenson, Bailey Basurto, Aubrey Alderman, Viggo Bortolin, and Natalie St. Pierre
August 15, 2024
As an opener for the ceremony, the 22nd graduating class of Foothill Technology High School's (Foothill Tech) class president and class vice president gave a memorable speech reflecting back on their four years of unforgettable experiences. From study groups, late night drives, hysterical teachers joke, to many more, these two young ladies presented their past while also looking ahead to the future awaits them. With Foothill Tech's upperclassmen gone and graduated, and finals rapping up, the only thing everyone at Foothill Tech can do now is wait for their chance to embark on their future path.

[Photo] Saying a final goodbye to our seniors: Graduation 2024

Aubrey Alderman and Audrey Szijj
June 13, 2024
Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls beach volleyball had a successful season of play, with a record of 7-1 in league play and an overall record of 11-6. In California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) division two, they finished the season strong, making it to round one of play.

[Photo] Girls beach volleyball

Dane Dodos, Reporter
June 11, 2024
Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls soccer did exceptionally well in league, placing first with a record of 8-1-1. Led by team captains Shayna Dearman-So ‘24, Taylor Listen ‘24, Cameryn Henuber ‘24 and Eva Goncalves ‘25, the team made it to round one of CIF playoffs.

[Photo] Girls soccer

Dane Dodos, Reporter
June 11, 2024
On the sunny day of May 24, 2024, students gathered in the Foothill Technology High School's (Foothill Tech) quad, from the early hours of sunrise, eager for the performances awaiting them during the annual Air Guitar. Hosted by the Associative Student Body (ASB), Air Guitar is an event that is looked forward to not just by students, but also teachers and staff alike. This year's performances consisted of singing, traditional dance and many tributes and references to MLF. Overall with student acts, the teacher act and the wide range of food to purchase during the food fair, Air Guitar was enjoyed by all this year. The picture above shows Jaylean Hernandez ‘24 who never fails to draw in a crowd and impress everyone with her traditional Folklorico dancing.

[Photo] Air Guitar brings smiles to Foothill students before finals begin

Aubrey Alderman, Reporter
May 27, 2024
On the evening of May 16, 2024, students of DTech Dynasty six, gathered in Foothill Technology High School’s (Foothill Tech) Spirito Hall displaying their end of the year projects and products. Displayed here is a series of products that represent a small portion of DTech and what each student is capable of creating. These particular products represent different aspects of Ventura and showcase the beauty of the town. Along with this, the products are being sold to support DTech and the students that create items such as these.

[Photo] Off the record: DTech seniors show off final project at Prototype Trade Show

Bailey Basurto, Reporter
May 20, 2024
On the evenings of April 17, 18 and 19, Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students, who are apart of the Drama Department, put on a show of "The Greek Mythology Olympiaganza" for parents, students and staff to enjoy. This is the Drama department’s second production of the school year starting with "Elf The Musical" in December. Parents and students filled the chairs in Spirito Hall bringing flowers, cards and gifts to support their students, as well as cash to buy snacks that were provided by Drama department as a fundraiser for the club. The night was filled with joy, fear, laughter and gloating all provided by the students of the Drama department.

[Photo] The Drama program brings new knowledge to Foothill Tech through Greek mythology

Aubrey Alderman, Reporter
April 22, 2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is constantly influencing the way in which students interact and learn through the school environment. From writing essays to apps that allow students to track their every move to share with others, AI is an important aspect in every hour of every day. One of the main problems is how students are incorporating it in their schoolwork. With extensive apps such as ChatGPT it has become extremely easier for students to simply type in their assigned problem and receive an answer without having to put any thought into said problem. Many teachers and staff members have found a way around students using AI for school work, but they are still holes in the system as long as there is technology involved with the students' learning. As AI is constantly improving so is the access to it as well as the usage in school between students and teachers.

[Photo] The roaring 20s of AI in education

Jane Kim, Writer
April 16, 2024
With elections currently taking place in the community of Ventura, Calif. it is more important than ever for people, including students who are first-time voters, to cast their ballots. There are resources such as ballots mailed to citizens to fill out their opinions and ballot drop off boxes placed conveniently around town. With a wide variety of candidates, students 18 years of age of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) are eager to use their voice to impact their future.

[Photo] A guide to voting for students on Super Tuesday

Emilie Huovinen, Writer
March 5, 2024
On Feb. 29, 2024 Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) girls’ beach volleyball team faced off against Oak Hill High School (Oak Hill) and gained a successful win with a final score of 6-0. The Dragons started off their season with an undefeated six game winning streak. Morgan Houston ‘25 (number 2) leaps up, and spikes the ball over the net, contributing to the Dragons’ win.

[Video] Girls volleyball crushes Oak Park 6-0 in early season matchup

Chance Leandro, Sports Reporter
March 2, 2024
Shayna Dearman-So ’24 receives Athlete of the Week for her remarkable 2023 sports season, where she has begun to display her exceptional skills as one of the top girls’ soccer players on campus. The Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) community appreciates all of her hard work in representing the school.

[Photo] Athlete of the Week: Shayna Dearman-So

Julia Geib, Assignment Editor
February 22, 2024
Surrounded by the opposing team, as well as Villanova’s coaches to the side of him, one of the team's point guards, Luigirey Guce ‘25 (number 1), manages to break away and take the shot, scoring a few extra points to finalize the Dragons' win.

[Photo] Boys’ basketball outplays Villanova on Senior Night

Conor White, Reporter
February 4, 2024
A group of students gathered at a table in the E-pod study for their rigorous finals that are one the horizon. From flash cards to text books, students squeeze in study sessions in between classes and during break, striving for that A+ that they deserve. Pushing through the week, students and staff are eagerly waiting for the three day weekend ahead.

[Photo] Foothill Tech students and teachers share their perspectives on finals week as semester one comes to a close

Ella Asher, Reporter
January 27, 2024
On the sunny days of Jan. 9, 2024 and Jan. 10, 2024, students gathered into different classes during their F.I.R.E. period to listen and learn about their choices for next school year’s electives. One main attraction was the BioScience Academy program fair. Displayed here is an upperclassman instructing the younger students on how to properly perform CPR, which is a skill you can learn in the academy.

[Photo] Foothill Tech’s annual Program Faire opens new interests for students to explore

Aubrey Alderman, Reporter
January 14, 2024
On Oct. 31 2023, students of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) were encouraged to dress up and enjoy some sweet Halloween treats provided by their peers and teachers at Trunk or Treat. Fun costumes were displayed such as Willy Wonka and his Oompa Loompas, shown by Kelsey Stolworthy '24, Ashlyn Mullin '24, Kaili Garrett '24 and Taylor Liston '24.

[Photo] Trunk or Treat brings students together for the spirit of Halloween

Aubrey Alderman, Reporter
November 3, 2023
The Love Ventura event took place on Oct. 7, 2023 at Plaza Park in downtown Ventura. Companies and individuals gathered together to support the city of Ventura and volunteer at different locations.

[Photo] Love Ventura’s annual Serve Day

Jane Kim and Audrey Szijj
October 11, 2023
Throughout the city of Ventura, pollution is washed down to the beaches through rivers and gutters, depositing cups, bags and other various trash onto our beaches and into the oceans.

[Photo] Just how deadly is stormwater runoff?

Jane Kim, Writer
September 26, 2023
During F.I.R.E and lunch, members of the Associated Student Body worked hard to prepare an assembly line of delicious In-N-Out for the Class of 2024.

[Photo] Class of 2024 connects through In-N-Out Burger and festivities

Aubrey Alderman, Reporter
September 22, 2023
Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, Iced Apple Crisp Oat Milk Shaken Espresso, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin and Baked Apple Croissant are all highly recommended drinks and pastries that are included in the Starbucks seasonal menu.

[Photo] Satire: Starbucks menu ushers in the official “fall era”

Layla Solomon, Writer
September 11, 2023
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Taylor Schmidt