Lucas Darling ’26
Plank Staff
Lucas Darling ’26
Attendance (916) 482-6060
Goodbye Willie’s
Back when I was a wee freshman, my Jesuit big brother told me a lot of things that went in one ear and out the other, but there was one thing that prominently stuck: “Willie’s Burgers has a student discount.”
For thousands of Marauders, Willie’s offered a typical burger joint, with fries, shakes, hotdogs, and more. But there was one defining feature for us Jesuit students – the student discount.
Mr. Zielke’s final sunrise at Jesuit
“We set a new world record and it was amazingly early,” said Mr. David Zielke.
For 33 years, Mr. Zielke has been setting records as a fantastic math teacher, cross-country coach, former vice principal, and Advanced Placement coordinator. After a long career of service, Mr. Zielke will be retiring with a legacy of being a true man for others.
Review: ‘Shin Godzilla’ breaks new ground
Directed by Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi, “Shin Godzilla” is the 31st film in the Godzilla Toho franchise. It was released on July 29, 2016 in Japan and had a limited release in America on Oct. 11, 2016.
Pizza and Prayer encourages faith at Jesuit
“It’s the most goated club on campus.”
These words, spoken by Mr. Lawrence Simon ’13, refer to the club he founded: the Pizza and Prayer Club. Created in 2023 to get students to engage in more prayer, the club creates a relaxed environment for students to converse about their religion with like-minded peers.
Opinion: College is not the only way
The Norsemen fought for entry to Valhalla; the Greeks sought to earn the favor of the gods for Elysium; Buddhists tried to achieve Nirvana. There’s always been status to achieve – a way to make it big. Now, success isn’t dictated by a glorious sacrifice of life in war but by the quiet, often unseen, sacrifice of happiness and mental health in the pursuit of college.
Many people see college as the only way to succeed in life, and they’re not totally wrong. College is definitely a good path to follow – it opens up so many opportunities for success while doing something that you love. However, despite the prevailing sentiment, it isn’t the only path to a fulfilling life. There are plenty of opportunities outside of a college education that also lead to fulfillment, such as trade jobs, or the military.
Marauders in France
In the summer of 2026, Jesuit High School Sacramento will be hosting an intercultural experience traveling across France, exploring Paris and other iconic French cities and landmarks. The program is organized by French teacher Ms. Leslie Willson.
Ali Zaidi ’25: everything, everywhere, all at once
Ali Zaidi ’25 cemented his extraordinary legacy at Jesuit High School Sacramento through his extensive work in the arts, science, and academic communities on campus and in the larger community.
Over the years, Ali has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Echelon Catapult, the President of the Computer Science Club, and the editor-in-chief for Moorings. He puts effort into all aspects of his work and life, expertly leading and organizing events in his co-curriculars.
Opinion: normalized hate feeds a dangerous cycle
The internet is arguably the best invention since the wheel. It allows us to connect with other people and share our ideas. Many people have harnessed this ability and shaped it into various online communities.
However, in the words of the late Ben Parker: “With great power comes great responsibility.” While these communities are often used for good purposes – advocacy, education, or even plain and simple entertainment – the power granted by the internet is very easily used to promote hateful ideology, whether intentionally or not.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetleju…
The original “Beetlejuice,” Tim Burton’s eccentric and oftentimes disturbing 1988 film, released to good – if not stellar – reviews. Despite some gruesome elements, the movie established itself as a classic family movie.
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” which was released on Sept. 6, 2024, a sequel 36 years in the making, had big shoes to fill, and it largely fails to live up to the accolades of the original.
Jesuit Engineering Club prepares students for the future
Last year, Max Troppman ’25 revived the Engineering club with the help of Math teacher Mr. Justin Tsai. The club works to showcase upcoming engineering inventions and concepts to foster student awareness and appreciation for the field.
“We typically bring videos regarding new and upcoming technologies and watch them as a group,” Max said. “We then discuss the content in these videos, discuss what we think of the implications that could be had in the future, and just talk a little about our own interests in STEM.”
Learning the reason for the season at Lessons and Carols
On Sunday, Dec. 8, Jesuit High School Sacramento’s chamber choir will collaborate with the Saint Francis High School choir to host the annual Lessons and Carols service.
Originating in England, Lessons and Carols is an event with a rich history that is dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Choir Director Mr. David Vanderbout explains the central themes and ideas that are communicated in the service.
Looking to help where needed most
This year, Jesuit High School Sacramento welcomes a new face to its counseling department. Ms. Jocelyn Kulper, who previously taught health education at Tokay High School in Lodi, California, stepped into the position as Administrative Assistant for Counseling.
In her new role at Jesuit, Ms. Kulper is in charge of ensuring that communication is smooth and efficient throughout the Counseling Department.
Directing the power of stories
For over three decades, English teacher and Drama Artistic Director Mr. Ed Trafton ’84 has inspired students at Jesuit High School Sacramento to create, to perform, and to see stories in a whole new light.