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
Jane Kim

Jane Kim, Writer

“When asked, ‘How do you write?’ I invariably answer, ‘one word at a time.'” – Stephen King

All content by Jane Kim
Mental health is the thread that weaves through every facet of daily life, often overlooked – until it frays, that is. A weight that shifts with the seasons of our lives, sometimes light, other times unbearably heavy. Invisible, and yet it colors the way we see the world and the way we perceive ourselves. It is the foundation of our thoughts, emotions and behavior, influencing everything from how we cope with stress to how we celebrate joy. This May, help create an environment where mental health is valued and addressed with the same urgency as physical health by embracing self-care and seeking support.

The green of spring makes way for Mental Health Awareness Month

Jane Kim, Writer
May 7, 2025
The automobile industry has been a prevalent factor in American culture for a long time, resulting in the sprawling expanse of roads covering the country. With cities planned in the image of cars, pedestrians face significant dangers traveling without one in various places all across the country. The busy metropolis was the model from years ago, one that has since become outdated and requires a replacement. With future adaptation towards more urban settings, the importance of cars is downsized. These urban settings will put the pedestrian first, aimed at providing safer human interactions without the threat of an accident lurking at every corner.

The state of urban planning

Jane Kim, Writer
May 1, 2025
Time will always keep progressing and with that, comes change, but just how much do things really change as time passes by each generation of individuals? The older generation and younger generation of Asian-Americans have all lived very different lives, however, there seems to be a common factor that comes along with growing up in a country as a minority. Dive into the lives of specific people expressing their own experience with the beautiful blend of cultures, generational change, and the undeniably constant factor of discrimination. Though the stories of a single man or woman's life are often overlooked, these are stories that should and need to be told.

The Asian-American experience: Unveiling the stories of the old and new generations

Emmanuel Takaya and Jane Kim
March 30, 2025
The stage has been set – and it is irreversible. From the depths of schools and children’s playrooms emerges yet another drama, one to rival the most well-known Greek tragedies, "Oedipus Rex" and "Antigone": the usurping of the pen and paper. As the sun rises on a new age of keyboards and screens, so too does it set for the era of parchment and dark velvety ink.

A Tragedy: The usurping of the pen and paper

Jane Kim, Writer
March 23, 2025
N93 masks, COVID tests and wipes that advertised killing 99.9% of viruses flooded the markets with the onset of the 2020 pandemic. People overturned grocery stores to stock during the infamous toilet paper shortages, and students sat through online school at dining tables or in bed. Everyone had a complete 180 from any form of normalcy, with the lock downs causing even those who weren't previously germaphobic to become extra cautious. Quarantine and social distancing became normal, emotional bonds were strung together by phone calls, but after five years of all of that, did the world really end?

Half a decade later, Foothill Tech reflects on when the world ended

Jane Kim and Bailey Basurto
March 2, 2025
Right in front of Foothill Technology High School's campus stood a glaring orange sun, and a chalky grey sky representing the devastating fires all over LA County. While still at school, students of Foothill Tech faced a snowstorm of fallen ash from the fires, and poor air quality, as depicted in the image.

Opinion: Amber waves of grain? No, a wildfire

Jane Kim and Audrey Szijj
February 4, 2025
As of January 2025, the recent strong winds combined with extremely low humidity levels have bred optimum fire weather conditions in California. This is evident by the numerous wildfires currently blazing through the Los Angeles area. One of them, the Palisades Fire, is the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history, having scorched an estimated five thousand structures. In addition to that, six other smaller fires in the Los Angeles area, including the Kenneth, Lidia, Sunset, Woodley, Archer and Olivas fires, have already been contained by the valiant efforts of firefighters. For those who lived through the devastation of the 2017 Thomas Fire and 2024 Mountain Fire, these Los Angeles fires are an unwelcome flashback to hasty evacuations, smothering fumes and the smoldering remains of homes on the hills.

Devastating Los Angeles fires dredge up past memories in Ventura County

Jane Kim and Audrey Szijj
January 18, 2025
Carlos Moreno, the hidden hero of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) athletics, is more than just the equipment attendant. He's the heart and soul of the program, tirelessly supporting every student-athlete, regardless of their sport. From ensuring basketball players have the right jerseys to organizing equipment for the cross country team, Carlos is the backbone of their success. His dedication extends beyond the equipment room, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all athletes. He's not just a staff member; he's a mentor, a friend, and a cherished part of the Foothill Tech family.

Hidden Heroes: Foothill Athletics’ MVP of the year, Carlos Moreno

Jane Kim, Writer
January 13, 2025
As another year comes to pass, it's time to look back on 2024 at Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) and see what's come to pass. From the arrival of a new principal to the 25th anniversary of our school, join our writers as we review the last year.

Best of 2024: Foothill Tech

Emmanuel Takaya, Jane Kim, Layla Solomon, and Amber Duhs
January 9, 2025
Who doesn’t love curling up with a good book? 2024 has gifted us with a plethora of new literary options for us to get our hands on, from bestselling authors like Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Lauren Roberts, Holly Black and Han Kang. Tag along with writers Kalea Eggertsen and Jane Kim as they discuss the best of these newly published works, including “Games Untold”, “Reckless”, “The Prisoner’s Throne” and "Human Acts".

Best of 2024: Books

Kalea Eggertsen and Jane Kim
January 9, 2025
2025 has begun! And with that, it's now time for us to look back on 2024 and remember all that has come to pass. Join the Foothill Dragon Press's writing section as we review a variety of popular topics from the year, ranging from albums and movies to fashion trends and books. It's sure to bring back memories from the past year and let us appreciate all the change and excitement we've experienced.

Best of 2024: A year in review

Emmanuel Takaya, Lyla Huff, Audrey Szijj, Morgan Houston, Jane Kim, Amber Duhs, Layla Solomon, Julia Brossia, Oliver Kelley, Ruby Jenkins, Kalea Eggertsen, and Kellen Spears
January 9, 2025
Head custodian, Todd Walker, a Hidden Hero at Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech), goes above and beyond to keep our campus clean and safe for students and his staff. His dedication and hard work is often taken for granted, but is deeply appreciated by all.

Hidden Heroes Season 2: In appreciation of Todd Walker

Jane Kim and Kalea Eggertsen
December 16, 2024
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I have never had turkey for Thanksgiving

Jane Kim, Writer
November 28, 2024
After the long-awaited 2024 U.S. presidential election held on Nov. 5, 2024, the race has been called following months of hard-fought campaigning. While some Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students express excitement for future President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance's term, others voice concern. Regardless of political affiliation, this comprehensive coverage offers insight into each candidate, their policies and students' opinions.

2024 U.S. Presidential Election: The closing act

Jane Kim, Writer
November 18, 2024
Nov. 5, 2024, marks one of the most highly anticipated and pivotal days of the year: Election Day. After years of preparation, the stage is set for a historic showdown between two major political parties. As shown above, Donald Trump, with his running mate J.D. Vance, is leading the Republican ticket, while Kamala Harris, with her running mate Tim Walz, is representing the Democratic Party. This election is set to be a defining moment in American politics, with both candidates offering different visions for the nation's future. This series covers a range of ropics such the importance of swing states, Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students' opinions on the election, enviromental policy and much more.

2024 Presidential Election Series

Jane Kim, Layla Solomon, Bailey Basurto, Beatrice Barnes, and Ruby Jenkins
November 5, 2024
As a continuation of the 2024 Presidential Election series, this article dives into the various policies and hot topics of the 2024 election and addresses Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) seniors' opinions in regards to these topics.

2024 U.S. Presidential Election: AP Government students’ opinions on policies

Jane Kim and Bailey Basurto
October 29, 2024
As a continuation of the 2024 Presidential Election series, this article dives into the Democratic presidential candidate, current Vice President, Kamala Harris. Harris is running with current governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz. This article dives into Harris' personal and professional history along with shedding light to some of her policies and plans.

The 2024 Democratic candidate and running mate

Jane Kim, Writer
October 14, 2024
Former President, Donald Trump's supporters across the nation have rose up in support of his and J.D. Vance's 2024 presidential campaign, with many rallying behind his "Make America Great Again" vision.

The 2024 Republican candidate and running mate

Jane Kim, Writer
October 9, 2024
Courtney Johnson, the newly appointed principal of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech). With many years of experience in education, Johnson plans to enhance academic programs, strengthen the school community and ensure that every student has an opportunity to succeed. Her leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter for the school, as she aims to build on its legacy of excellence while introducing different approaches to education.

Courtney Johnson looks to the future as Foothill Tech’s new principal

Jane Kim, Writer
August 29, 2024
With the continuous rise of online news and readily available information, it is getting easier and easier to find anything you want about a given subject. Along with this instant information, the online newscape has found its hold in politics. Consistently social media is a talking point in modern debates, as the online platforms tend to divide the general public on large issues. Due to these constant debates and intense disagreements, a greater divide is being placed between groups such as Republicans and Democrats. With this growing divide between a variety of groups, it's important to consider social media’s role in fostering the growing issues.

Opinion: The media is polarizing us

Jane Kim, Writer
June 24, 2024
Many students across the United States brave new classrooms and substitute teachers every year, especially those with "ethnic" names. However, there are ways to approach hard-to-pronounce names with more consideration.

How malapropism of names affects students

Jane Kim
June 10, 2024
The 2024 - 2025 school year brings big changes to the schedules of students at Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech). With news spreading about the change, it has become a regular topic of discussion for students and teachers alike.

Opinion: Yay or nay for the 2024-2025 schedule change?

Jane Kim, Writer
May 28, 2024
Foothill Technology High School's (Foothill Tech) success is powered by multiple teachers and staff. Jean Barrett is in her second school year at Foothill Tech as the school support secretary. She ensures that each student has their paperwork finalized. Behind the scenes on campus, Barrett assists the assistant principal with tracking students behavior and validates students absences and tardiness. Each year, Barrett helps out with the annual state testing making sure everything is run smoothly. On the Foothill Tech website all recent updates and news are published by this hidden hero.

Hidden Heroes: Highlighting the indispensable role of Jean Barrett

Jane Kim and Kalea Eggertsen
May 7, 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.

The roaring 20s of AI in education

Jane Kim, Writer
April 16, 2024
Despite great improvements in women's rights movements across decades of progression, modern society has been stagnant towards recent feminist movements. While the physicality of such past improvements can be seen, the long-standing psychological impact of stereotyped gender culture is the greater conflict to fight.

Women’s History Month and the stagnance in gender progress

Jane Kim, Writer
April 11, 2024
The start to the California March Primary means a new chance for new beginnings for laws and propositions in California. Which begs the question; is it worth it to vote? The importance in voting has never been more crucial. By including the younger generation's opinions in the polls, it gives a bright perspective into the future of our state relating to climate change, reproduction rights and women's rights.

Foothill Tech’s student voters and why they matter

Jane Kim, Writer
March 7, 2024
The survey conducted on Feb. 14, 2024 on the campus of Foothill Tech showed how there were on average more negative than positive impacts. Most students also spent more than two hours on social media a day, which takes away crucial time for more valuable activities.

Opinion: Our lost generation and the reign of social media

Jane Kim, Writer
February 27, 2024
After meticulously setting up lighting, sound, props, and other equipment, William (Pape) Crown '24, checks the camera for any adjustments that may need to be made. Daniel Franco '24 runs over his lines during the last few minutes before beginning the scene, preparing for his monologue.

The quest of SP Films and the value of learning history

Jane Kim and Paula Gonzalez
February 18, 2024
Lori Walker, the head lunch lady of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech), is a vital part of the community, helping run the school cafeteria from her small yet influential office located at the heart of Foothill Tech’s Spirito Hall. She welcomes everyone with a kind smile and charming personality, always willing to help anyone in need. She is such a vital part of the Foothill Tech community and can be easily considered one of Foothill Tech’s Hidden Heroes.

Hidden Heroes: Illuminating Lori Walker

Jane Kim and Kalea Eggertsen
February 16, 2024
Burnout is described as the complete exhaustion caused by overwork. As the school year trudges on, students begin to become exhausted, especially those involved in athletic activities. It seems as though burnout has been creeping up on high school students everywhere.

Opinion: Is academic and athletic burnout ruining the high school experience?

Jane Kim and Bailey Basurto
January 21, 2024
2023 was a year to remember! Join the Foothill Dragon Press's writing section as they discuss popular topics such as movies, concerts, video games, books and fashion, along with year-shaping events at Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech). The Best of 2023 series has everything from old favorites to newcomers.

Best of 2023: A year in review

Ruby Jenkins, Camilla Lewis, Isheeta Pal, Beatrice Barnes, Julia Brossia, Amber Duhs, Paula Gonzalez, Emilie Huovinen, Kelly Quinn, Layla Solomon, Audrey Szijj, Kalea Eggertsen, and Jane Kim
January 1, 2024
Literature is a consistent influence in the lives of many people. It comes in many forms, including books loved by people all across the world. Looking at the year of 2023, writers Kalea Eggertson and Jane Kim reflect on books from throughout the previous year.

Best of 2023: Books

Jane Kim and Kalea Eggertsen
December 31, 2023
“All the Light We Cannot See” is a 2014 novel by author Anthony Doerr. The novel is set amidst World War II, following characters Marie-Laure LeBlanc and Werner Pfennig. In 2019, a television adaptation set to be released through Netflix was announced, with actors Aria Mia Loberti and Louis Hofmann starring. Previewed first at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, the miniseries premiered in its whole on Netflix, on Nov. 2, 2023. Following the same premise of the novel, the adaptation takes a slightly different approach to a well-beloved story.

“All the Light We Cannot See”: A story of finding hope in darkness

Jane Kim, Writer
December 17, 2023
Elizabeth "Liz" Prado, the office manager of Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech), is a vital part of the community, helping run the school from her small yet influential office located at the heart of Foothill Tech's administration building. She welcomes everyone with a kind smile and charming personality, always willing to help everyone in need. She is such a vital part of our community and can be easily considered as one of Foothill Tech's hidden heroes.

Hidden Heroes: In recognition of Elizabeth “Liz” Prado

Jane Kim and Kalea Eggertsen
December 6, 2023
Birds are a common sight around the world, with 11,118 species of birds existing around the world. Around our town of Ventura, we have a variety of species of which nine are brought up in this article. The nine bird species that are covered are the Cooper’s Hawk, Brewer’s Blackbird, Black Pheobe, Brown Pelican, Dark-eyed Junco, Eurasian Collared-Dove, House Sparrow, Turkey Vulture and the Sanderling. Jane Kim and Layla Solomon decide to research and show off these nine birds, sharing facts about each of them in turn with individual drawings to display the birds.

Why we may be living in a mass extinction and a casual guide to birds of Ventura

Jane Kim and Layla Solomon
November 13, 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.

Love Ventura’s annual Serve Day

Jane Kim and Audrey Szijj
October 11, 2023

Hidden Heroes: The story of Johnny Garcia

Kalea Eggertsen and Jane Kim
October 6, 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.

Just how deadly is stormwater runoff?

Jane Kim, Writer
September 26, 2023
Advanced Placement (AP) English and Language Composition is a challenging class to take. Teachers Jennifer Kindred and Richard Geib have a unique way of teaching their classes, providing an experience that students will never forget.

A guide to Advanced Placement English Language and Composition

Jane Kim, Writer
September 11, 2023
Artist and columnist Jane Kim '26 paints an intricate scene consisting of keyholes and locked doors as a commentary on the perspective of life that minority groups are subject to face.

Column: Keyholes and locked doors

Jane Kim, Columnist
November 7, 2022
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Jane Kim