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The school board is tasked with making big decisions for the school district. This can be anything from a cell phone policy to deciding how much money is dedicated towards what area. Photo by Lydia Gerety

Musical chairs get serious as four candidates vie for three open Ankeny School Board seats

November 3, 2025

Trick-or-treating is now taking place on Halloween, ending the Beggars night tradition. Graphic Created by Lydia Gerety using Canva

Ankeny ends Halloween tradition

October 31, 2025

Fans Cheer for the Ankeny High Hawks, on Friday 9/19. Photo by Bryant Warren

The Bright Side of the Game

October 1, 2025

Ankeny Community School District (ACSD) hopes to provide students with many different opportunities before they graduate. “I think we have to do a better job of anticipating the need versus being reactionary,” ACSD Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt said. “This is our approach of attempting to be strategic, anticipating need through our collaboration with business partners, industry partners, and then also listening to our students and our parents around how we do a more effective job of serving all kids and improving the experience and opportunities that we afford them here in the District.” Image created by Invision Architects, published with permission from Samantha Aukes

Ankeny Community School District seeks a $130 million dollar bond

September 18, 2025

Some Ankeny High School (AHS) students have been outraged since school started due to the absence of chocolate milk in the cafeteria, but this regulation goes far beyond the Ankeny school district (ACSD). Students pose with their chocolate milk photographed by River Phillips, made using SCRL by River Phillips.

The chocolate milk debacle

September 2, 2025

Lockhart, E. (2025). We fell apart [Book cover]. Delacorte Press. Image used under fair use for purposes of commentary and review. The newest book in the “We were liars” collection was released Nov. 4.

“We fell apart” by e. lockhart

November 14, 2025

AHS junior Rissa Masters has taken on an immense role that comes with immense pressure, but she has taken it with a smile on her face and a willingness to help that exceeds what anyone could hope for.

Clarissa Masters: The director of many hats

November 10, 2025

Despite its nine-year age, “Clash Royale” maintains its popularity to this day. Students at Ankeny High School are no stranger to the game. Photo by Gabe Brannon.

This is why we clash

November 6, 2025

“Deadbeat” album cover, released Oct. 17, 2025, depicting Tame Impala, also known as Kevin Parker, with his daughter, Peach. (Columbia Records, exclusive license from Tame Impala)

Tame Impala releases “Deadbeat”

October 31, 2025

“Tron: Ares” is now out at local theaters near you. The film clocks in at 1 hour 59 minutes and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Walt Disney Studios.

“Tron: Ares”: A visual triumph, stumbles in storytelling

October 30, 2025

“Deadbeat” album cover, released Oct. 17, 2025, depicting Tame Impala, also known as Kevin Parker, with his daughter, Peach. (Columbia Records, exclusive license from Tame Impala)

Tame Impala releases “Deadbeat”

October 31, 2025

“Tron: Ares” is now out at local theaters near you. The film clocks in at 1 hour 59 minutes and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Walt Disney Studios.

“Tron: Ares”: A visual triumph, stumbles in storytelling

October 30, 2025

“Stans” is now streaming on Paramount+. The film runs at one hour and 42 minutes, and is not rated. Poster courtesy of Shady Films, Hill District Media, DIGA Studios, and MTV Entertainment Studios.

“Stans” movie review

September 4, 2025

“Thunderbolts*” is now playing in a theater near you. The film runs at two hours and six minutes, and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Studios.

How “Thunderbolts*” brings Marvel back to its promising glory days | REVIEW

May 2, 2025

“A Minecraft Movie” is now playing in a theater near you. The film is rated PG and runs at an hour and 41 minutes. Poster from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Entertainment.

Why “A Minecraft Movie” blocked itself from success | REVIEW

April 4, 2025

Album cover for ‘Lonely at the Top’. Released August 29th, 2025. (Columbia Records, Pro Era, Cinematic Music Group)

Lonely at the Top of a hill, not rap

September 12, 2025

Join hosts Nolan and Blake for one last episode as they discuss recent drops, concerts, and news in the Hip-Hop space. Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

May 20, 2025

Cover of “MUSIC” by Playboi Carti which dropped on March 14th, 2025 with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes distributed by AWGE and Interscope Records.

Playboi Carti’s “MUSIC” Album Review

April 4, 2025

Made by Olivia Luna using Canva

Increasing elitism within concerts

April 4, 2025

Created by Brogan Smith using Canva,
The graphic displays a representation of music and audio being continuously recycled, a technique that has been famously used throughout music history.

The recycling of music

March 6, 2025

Lockhart, E. (2025). We fell apart [Book cover]. Delacorte Press. Image used under fair use for purposes of commentary and review. The newest book in the “We were liars” collection was released Nov. 4.

“We fell apart” by e. lockhart

November 14, 2025

“Deadbeat” album cover, released Oct. 17, 2025, depicting Tame Impala, also known as Kevin Parker, with his daughter, Peach. (Columbia Records, exclusive license from Tame Impala)

Tame Impala releases “Deadbeat”

October 31, 2025

Released July 22 this year, “Not Quite Dead Yet” is a murder mystery where the victim doesn’t die right away, and in her time left, she is solving her own murder. Jackson H. (2025) Not Quite Dead Yet. Common Sense Media.

“Not Quite Dead Yet” by Holly Jackson

October 16, 2025

Iowa State University's production of the classic Shakespearean tragedy, Julius Caesar, leaves audiences entranced and connected to the emotion laid out on the stage of the Fisher Theater. Photo by Lynae Midkiff.

Review: Julius Caesar at Iowa State University

October 3, 2025

Laurie Halse Anderson wrote the realistic fiction book “Speak” about the high school experience as an outcast. A party in the month before school is ruined, because the main character calls the cops to the house. She hasn’t spoken since. Anderson, L. H. (2006). Speak. Square Fish.

“Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson

October 2, 2025

Lockhart, E. (2025). We fell apart [Book cover]. Delacorte Press. Image used under fair use for purposes of commentary and review. The newest book in the “We were liars” collection was released Nov. 4.

“We fell apart” by e. lockhart

November 14, 2025

Released July 22 this year, “Not Quite Dead Yet” is a murder mystery where the victim doesn’t die right away, and in her time left, she is solving her own murder. Jackson H. (2025) Not Quite Dead Yet. Common Sense Media.

“Not Quite Dead Yet” by Holly Jackson

October 16, 2025

In a society where freedom is idolized, when are we actually free and when are we shackled to the idea of freedom? Image made by River Phillips using Canva.

The price of freedom

September 15, 2025

Barrio Barrito Bar located 1510 N Ankeny Blvd, Suite 102, Ankeny, IA 50023 Photo By Caden McGlin

Barrio Burrito Bar

May 28, 2025

In the newest column by the Talon Staff, reporters show their appreciation to some of their favorite teachers in Ankeny High School! Design by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

Talon appreciates teachers

May 9, 2025

Second edition of The Talon editorial, design made using Canva by River Phillips.

Talon Editorial: Critique of Modern Media

May 23, 2025

As the world grapples with the fallout of TikTok's ban, its impact on society, politics, and culture marks a pivotal moment in history. From reshaping habits to sparking debates on free speech and national security, this decision leaves a lasting impression on the global stage.
Visual made by Tobias Landmesser using Canva

Talon Editorial: TikTok, the current predicament

January 17, 2025

IGHSAU 5a Semifinals Matchup between Ankeny Hawkettes, and Waukee Northwest Wolves at 10 am on Nov. 5th 2025
Made by Bryant Warren using Adobe Photoshop.

What to watch: Hawkettes vs Wolves – 5a volleyball semifinals

November 4, 2025

FNL in Photos: Hawks vs. Rams

November 4, 2025

Ankeny Hawks Vs Southeast Polk Rams: 7pm at Ankeny Stadium
Made by Bryant Warren using Adobe Photoshop.

What to watch: Hawks Vs. Rams Week 1 PO

October 31, 2025

Seniors Owen Fischer (19), Andrew Brandhorst (13), and Kael Roush (15) talk together after a play during Ankeny’s matchup with Valley on Friday, October 17th.

FNL in photos: Hawks vs. Valley

October 22, 2025

Ankeny head strength coach Andrew Moser watches the football game from the sidelines. Moser previously served in the strength departments with Iowa State University and the University of Missouri. Iowa State and Missouri are considered Power 4 schools, as their athletic teams compete in the top conferences in the nation. Photo by Suri Sithep.

Power 4 to Ankeny High

October 22, 2025

AHS junior Rissa Masters has taken on an immense role that comes with immense pressure, but she has taken it with a smile on her face and a willingness to help that exceeds what anyone could hope for.

Clarissa Masters: The director of many hats

November 10, 2025

Students from the Lookingglass cast rehearse a scene from Alice in Wonderland. Photo by Jackson Betsworth

Curtains draw back and reveal an additional cast

November 7, 2025

Despite its nine-year age, “Clash Royale” maintains its popularity to this day. Students at Ankeny High School are no stranger to the game. Photo by Gabe Brannon.

This is why we clash

November 6, 2025

The 34th annual Copan exchange has officially concluded, and what did our exchange students think? Graphic created by Leah Bierl using SCRL.

Ankeny through new eyes

November 5, 2025

During a Hawk Time session, the students and art teacher Guy Loraine focus on the neat details of the hawk’s eyes. “We've got enough designs that we could have maybe six or seven murals around the building,” Loraine said. Photo by Adilyn Hoop.

Students brighten halls with creativity

November 3, 2025

AHS junior Rissa Masters has taken on an immense role that comes with immense pressure, but she has taken it with a smile on her face and a willingness to help that exceeds what anyone could hope for.

Clarissa Masters: The director of many hats

November 10, 2025

Student board representative Evelyn-Hernandez Luna speaks to the school board about feedback from students. “She's really good at listening to others' opinions. That's a good leadership quality. She's kind, she's considerate. She is dependable. All of those things that I've talked about make for a good leader,” science teacher Carol Walters said. Photo by Lydia Gerety

Finding her voice to connect students to the board

October 30, 2025

Performing this year with a green stripe across her maroon uniform, the Marching Hawks play with her guidance. Drum Major Noglo is on the podium not for the spotlight, but to lead her peers. A Euphonium player and close friend of Noglo, junior Natalia Mercer said, “She's very kind, very sweet, super caring, and she's always trying to help other people. She's always there when you need her.” Photo by Jackson Betsworth

Akouvi Noglo: Leadership for Others

October 28, 2025

Ankeny head strength coach Andrew Moser watches the football game from the sidelines. Moser previously served in the strength departments with Iowa State University and the University of Missouri. Iowa State and Missouri are considered Power 4 schools, as their athletic teams compete in the top conferences in the nation. Photo by Suri Sithep.

Power 4 to Ankeny High

October 22, 2025

Ankeny High School welcomes Brett Iverson, our new head custodian, in charge of keeping our building clean
and our students safe. Dedicated to making sure everyone feels like they belong, Brett Iverson embodies our Hawk values perfectly. Photo by Jackson Betsworth.

‘We’re all a family here’

September 19, 2025

Offensive Lineman Owen Liechti celebrates with Wide Receiver Andrew Brandhorst after a touchdown late in the game.

Friday Night Lights: 10/3

October 6, 2025

Teams prepare for UTL games by creating flags and gathering to design and decorate their uniforms, demonstrating unity and excitement in the face of friendly school competition. Photo by Jackson Betsworth

Under the Lights: A homecoming tradition

September 29, 2025

On episode 9 of "Now Playing..." Blake and Nolan discuss the long-awaited album from Playboi Carti, titled "MUSIC". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

April 15, 2025

Hosts Nolan and Blake bring on guest Brogan Smith to talk about his experience with the Chromakopia Tour on this episode of "Now Playing...". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

April 11, 2025

The Hawkettes shake hands after a 50-27 loss to the No. 2 Dowling Catholic Maroons.

Hawkettes wrap up regular season with loss to Maroons

February 12, 2025

On episode 9 of "Now Playing..." Blake and Nolan discuss the long-awaited album from Playboi Carti, titled "MUSIC". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

April 15, 2025

Hosts Nolan and Blake bring on guest Brogan Smith to talk about his experience with the Chromakopia Tour on this episode of "Now Playing...". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

April 11, 2025

Hosts Nolan McNulty and Blake Eichmeier bring on guest speaker Ryan Cox to talk about The Weeknd's final album, "Hurry Up Tomorrow" on episode 7. Design by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

February 4, 2025

"Now Playing..." returns after a hiatus, talking about Travis Scott, Djo, and Hinterland on episode 6. Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.

January 28, 2025

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The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon

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The Talon

Home
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Sports
Features
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About
- Sponsor a Talon journalist!
- Staff

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Trending Stories

1

Ankeny Community School District (ACSD) hopes to provide students with many different opportunities before they graduate. “I think we have to do a better job of anticipating the need versus being reactionary,” ACSD Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt said. “This is our approach of attempting to be strategic, anticipating need through our collaboration with business partners, industry partners, and then also listening to our students and our parents around how we do a more effective job of serving all kids and improving the experience and opportunities that we afford them here in the District.” Image created by Invision Architects, published with permission from Samantha Aukes

Ankeny Community School District seeks a $130 million dollar bond

2

Ankeny head strength coach Andrew Moser watches the football game from the sidelines. Moser previously served in the strength departments with Iowa State University and the University of Missouri. Iowa State and Missouri are considered Power 4 schools, as their athletic teams compete in the top conferences in the nation. Photo by Suri Sithep.

Power 4 to Ankeny High

3

The school board is tasked with making big decisions for the school district. This can be anything from a cell phone policy to deciding how much money is dedicated towards what area. Photo by Lydia Gerety

Musical chairs get serious as four candidates vie for three open Ankeny School Board seats

4

Some Ankeny High School (AHS) students have been outraged since school started due to the absence of chocolate milk in the cafeteria, but this regulation goes far beyond the Ankeny school district (ACSD). Students pose with their chocolate milk photographed by River Phillips, made using SCRL by River Phillips.

The chocolate milk debacle

5

Fans Cheer for the Ankeny High Hawks, on Friday 9/19. Photo by Bryant Warren

The Bright Side of the Game

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