The Importance of Social Interaction on Students’ Lives Alvaro Castillo, Staff Reporter April 21, 2026
A New Direction in College Admissions: What’s New with the Re-enforcement of Mandatory Testing Policies? Kayla Hofman, Associate Editor February 26, 2026
Mater Dei Cheer challenges public stereotypes of cheerleading Layla Cole and Natalie Flores September 17, 2025
Mater Dei Wrapped: Which Artists and Songs Did Students Enjoy The Most? Victoria Cox, Staff Reporter February 5, 2025
![GET UP Students laugh and dance at a school rally. All the events and rallies hosted by ASB help bring students together and make school an enjoyable place to be. Senior Maddy O’Connor believes ASB keeps everything together and the school spirit alive. “A lot of things wouldn't be as organized [without ASB] and it'd be kind of boring,” O’Connor said. “ASB brings joy to Mater Dei, and pretty much [all things] cool.”](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/HEIF-Image-1200x800.jpeg)
![WHAT’S TRENDING Being test-optional does not truly mean “optional.” Although some top schools continue the “test blind” policy in their admissions process, the number of accepted students who submitted test scores is substantially more than those who chose not to. Because of the rising number of competitive applicants vying for admission at top universities, an excellent ACT or SAT score can make all the difference and be a valuable predictor of how an individual will perform at the college level. “I really do think that the SAT [and ACT] can be more helpful than harmful most of the time,” Mater Dei School Counselor Marybeth Nguyen said. “The college just wants to know that you're going to be successful there.” Photo Illustration by Kayla Hofman.](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/HEIF-Image-12-1200x675.jpeg)
![ONE LAST RIDE The latest installment of Stranger Things has sparked controversy throughout the fan base for questionable creative decisions. Freshman Jordan Nguyen states his strong opinions on the conclusion. “I’d rate the show an 8,” Nguyen said. “The majority of the show was good. [Towards the end of the last season], it all just fell apart. A lot of questions were [left unanswered] and I was just disappointed.”](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/HEIF-Image-9-1200x800.jpeg)
![WORK TO SUCCEED By working these tips into their study schedule, students can reap the benefits of AP courses. With just a few easy lifestyle changes, and new methods before the test, students can see an increase in scores that other successful students have witnessed. “It‘s really about making sure that throughout the year you know what you're doing,” senior Angela Karanja said. “[Also] being calm the day of, so that you can remember everything that you learned [is helpful].” Infographic by Ava Gomez.](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5210-1200x676.jpeg)
![A YEAR IN REVIEW
Between Nov. and Dec. 2024, 57 respondents voted for their favorite songs, artists, and albums. Every category had multiple options, and each one faced tight competition as the artists Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, and Billie Eilish battled for the top spots. Students like senior Payton Bauer encourages others to check out other popular singers, if they haven’t already. “I would say [listen to Carpenter] if you're [wanting to] feel good about yourself,” Bauer said. “Or maybe you just want something to work out or dance to. [Her music is] really fun.”](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Orange-Black-Why-Vinyl-Records-Rock-Music-Infographic-e1738774839991.png)
