• 11/3 Volleyball vs. Dowling Catholic
  • 11/5 Volleyball vs. Northwest
  • 11/7-9 Fall Drama Production
The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
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
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
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
“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. 
Now Playing…
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
“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
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
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
“It's just the lack of desire to do the work that's been given to you when you have so many things ahead of you. It's just like it doesn't matter.” Senior Mia Koka said. Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
So close, but so far
May 5, 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
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
Ankeny High School (AHS) students come out in full force to put on a successful Trunk or Treat in the AHS parking lot. Photo by Jackson Betsworth.
Haunted by age
October 31, 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
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
Senior Grady Andersen keeps stats at an Ankeny Hawks baseball game. He’s been helping with the team since his freshman year, and added roles in basketball and football by sophomore year. “Grady has found a place,” said his dad, Kiron Andersen. “And I hope he's created an opportunity for someone else.” That sense of opportunity and support runs through everything Grady does—from filming plays to mentoring underclassmen. Photo published with permission from Dylan Shoemaker (@thefittestphotographer)
Grady Andersen: The man on the sideline
May 29, 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.
Now Playing…
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.
Now Playing…
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.
Now Playing…
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.
Now Playing…
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.
Now Playing…
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.
Now Playing…
January 28, 2025
The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
Brogan Smith

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor

Brogan is a junior at Ankeny High School. He enjoys listening to music and spending time with friends and family. He is involved in Key Club, Mental Health Club, AELP, National Honor Society, ASL Club, and is on the executive council in the National Science Honor Society. He is learning how to play the guitar, and hopes to become an orthodontist in the future. 
All content by Brogan Smith
“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”

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor
October 31, 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

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor
September 12, 2025

Now Playing…

Nolan McNulty, Blake Eichmeier, and Brogan Smith
April 11, 2025
Leister smiling for the camera. Photo published with permission from Mary Kate Leister.

Merry Mary: New to the nest

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor
April 9, 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

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor
March 6, 2025
Ankeny High School senior Andrew Haase walks off of the mat after a win at the Ankeny versus Centennial dual meet on Dec. 12, 2024. Photo published with permission by Andrew Haase, Photo by Dylan Shoemaker, The Fittest Photographer

Andrew Haase, the brotherhood of Ankeny wrestling

Brogan Smith, Opinion and Social Media Editor
February 15, 2025
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