Kayla Hofman, Associate Editor
Kayla Hofman is a sophomore student editor for the 2025-2026 edition of The Scarlet Scroll. As Associate Editor for Mater Dei’s newspaper, Kayla hopes to bring awareness to relevant current affairs, the opportunities on campus, and the greater Orange County community. In addition to her leadership on the newspaper team, Kayla is an AP/Honors student, varsity swimmer, MANE Mentor, and Scarlett Ambassador.
![DUNK THE TRASHKETBALL Honors Biology Teacher Kelly Petro clarifies the rules of his interactive science activity. Trashketball, Petro’s newly created game, reinstates crucial science concepts and terminology while allowing students to study recently learned material. Whether in the classroom or on the lacrosse field, Petro ensures that his student-athletes absorb the information using unique study methods. “For school, I try [to have] a general sense of what works for everyone in the classroom [studying wise]. I want everyone to know the [importance of what we are doing in biology],” Petro said.](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HEIF-Image-1200x800.jpeg)
![OPENING DOORS TO BRIGHT FUTURES Director of Admissions, Jennifer Hornbuckle, poses for a photo as she plans the New Student and Parent Welcome Night. This event allows these families the opportunity to meet the Mater Dei coaches, department heads, academic counselors, and other crucial faculty members. Since starting high school can be overwhelming for most new families, the Admissions Department organizes events to welcome the incoming Monarchs and display all of the resources available to them. “It’s [crucial to] maintain those relationships with families,” Underwood said. “[We] make sure they still feel good about the school, and [we] offer our assistance with any questions they have.”
OPENING DOORS TO BRIGHT FUTURES: Director of Admissions, Jennifer Hornbuckle, poses for a photo as she plans the New Student and Parent Welcome Night. This event allows these families the opportunity to meet the Mater Dei coaches, department heads, academic counselors, and other crucial faculty members. Since starting high school can be overwhelming for most new families, the Admissions Department organizes events to welcome the incoming Monarchs and display all of the resources available to them. “It’s [crucial to] maintain those relationships with families,” Underwood said. “[We] make sure they still feel good about the school, and [we] offer our assistance with any questions they have.”](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_5236-1200x800.jpeg)
![MAKING WAVES Junior and driver Ayla Ackerman shoots the ball while an opposing player attempts to guard her. The Mater Dei Varsity Girls Water Polo Team faced off against the Laguna Beach Breakers on Dec. 13 in a legendary match. The Monarchs won the game with a final score of 12-6. Not only did these girls demonstrate their shooting accuracy, swimming speed, and excellent teamwork, they displayed their passion and dedication for the sport. “I would say [water polo has taught] me perseverance, resilience, discipline, and to trust my teammates and coaches,” senior Mia Sullivan said. Photo by Paige Deiparine.](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5-1200x800.jpeg)
![MONARCHS IN PINK Freshmen Brooklyn Almasi, Rachel Koch, and Jeanette Schulz smile into the camera before the big game at the Freshman Tailgate. The annual Freshman Tailgate, hosted on Friday, Sept. 20, at the top of the parking structure at Santa Ana Stadium, was a big hit. The Freshman Commissioners and Freshman Officers organized the event with fun games, various raffles, and catered Chick-fil-A. Not only did the freshmen have a great time, but the organizers felt fulfilled with their efforts. “The best part [is when] we get to [organize] rallies or plan events,” Freshman President Sophia McKay said. Photo courtesy of Abby Abad.](https://thescarletscroll.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMG_1938-1200x800.png)
