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The Student News Site of Vel Phillips Memorial

Espada y Escudo

Espada y Escudo

Espada y Escudo

The Student News Site of Vel Phillips Memorial

Senior Advice

Senior Advice

Nina Zhu, Co-Editor-in-Chief May 1, 2026

Second semester senior year has left me reflecting on many of my high school experiences, from classes I’ve taken to clubs I’ve joined. As a freshman, I really valued the advice that seniors gave me,...

VPM's Best Lunch Options

VPM’s Best Lunch Options

Nina Zhu, Co-Editor-in-Chief September 1, 2025

For many, one of the highlights of going to Memorial is its proximity to a variety of food and shopping options. From Dave’s Hot Chicken to a warm bowl of pho from Saigon Noodles, you can find a group...

Guide to AP Classes

Nina Zhu, Co-Editor-in-Chief September 1, 2025

For everyone in the process of finalizing their schedule, underclassmen especially, here’s a guide to AP classes if you’ve never taken one before, so you know what to expect.  AP stands for Advanced...

March ACT: Five-Day Weekend and Tips for Juniors

March ACT: Five-Day Weekend and Tips for Juniors

Nina Zhu, Student Life Editor March 1, 2025

Good news, Spartans--we only have one five-day week in all of March! All students have no school on March 7 for parent-teacher conferences, March 10 for a staff professional learning day, and, for everyone...

Test Taking Tips

Test Taking Tips

Nina Zhu, Student Life Editor January 1, 2025

As Demonstration of Learning week is quickly approaching, we’ve gathered some test-taking tips to keep in mind as you take your exams and retakes! Before the test: Don’t cram Although it...

Ending The School Year On a Good Note

Ending The School Year On a Good Note

PJ Mulkey May 1, 2024

The school year is almost over Spartans! That means a long summer break and fun days for most until the fall comes around again. Most people end the school year relieved and with a sense of accomplishment...

Make This Summer Count!

Make This Summer Count!

Hayat Brahmer, Student Life Editor May 1, 2024

Get excited because Summer is almost here! That means more time to see your friends, family, and enjoy no school! It is important to spend this time destress and do things you enjoy. It is also a great...

Why You Don't Need Water To Live

Why You Don’t Need Water To Live

Hayat Brahmer, Student Life April 1, 2024

Water is becoming less and less accessible. This is leading more and more people to start living without H2O, something that has been possible but not usually done. It is time...

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