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The student news site of Highlands High School

The Hilltopper

The student news site of Highlands High School

The Hilltopper

The student news site of Highlands High School

The Hilltopper

The placebo effect happens when someone takes a pill with no real medicine, like a sugar pill, and feels better because they believe it works.

The importance of understanding the placebo effect

Isabella Roderick and Abigale Jennings February 10, 2025

Imagine taking a pill with no real medicine but still feeling better.  This is the placebo effect, when people improve because they believe a treatment works. Scientists study it to understand how...

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Symbols of health and medical support.

Tips for staying healthy all season long

Adalyn Armstrong-Cattani and Merary Valdez February 10, 2025

Winter is the most common time to get sick. The most common illnesses to get are the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RVS). Many people are not educated on how to prevent sickness while it is going...

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Emma Hood and her opponent getting ready to start their match.

Emma Hood ranks #1 in the state

Meg Gallagher and Parker Henegar February 6, 2025

The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as the tournament reaches its peak, with all eyes on Emma Hood (10) as she aims to claim the coveted top spot.  With the support of her coaches and teammates,...

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Lilian Foley Business Logo.

The future of business starts with students

Hudson Hargis February 6, 2025

Here at Highlands High School, a new wave of entrepreneurship is sweeping through as students take their skills into their businesses.  From photography to bakeries, student-owned businesses have been...

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Sparklers bring people into the new year.

Reflecting on new year’s resolutions

Meg Gallagher February 5, 2025

A new year counts as a new start, which for many people means new goals and expectations. New Year's resolutions are a popular way to begin a healthier lifestyle, especially after being cooped up at home...

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Students working while handling school day by day.

How high schoolers balance academics and a part time job

Edith Deleon February 4, 2025

As many high school students know, life can get a little crazy.  Between waking up for school, staying up late to finish homework, and trying to squeeze in extracurriculars, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. But...

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 High school students face immense pressure. It’s crucial to acknowledge the mental health challenges they encounter.

Mental health is stigmatized by many

Haidyn Kelsay February 4, 2025

For far too long, mental illness has been curtained with secrecy and misunderstanding. Despite its prevalence, the stigmatization of mental health has continued. Students and individuals tussling with...

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The real life bluebird, the bird  representing HHS.

What does Highlands’ bluebird represent?

Max Bauer February 3, 2025

The Bluebird represents Highlands and has been iconized in Highlands Middle and High school. The mascot has been decorated for sports, holidays, and other school activities that students partake in.  The...

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Aaliyah Haretuku (9) starts her approach for high jump.

First two meets mark the beginning of track season

Eva Smith and Harper Teismman February 3, 2025

As February creeps around the corner, the boys and girls track season is already underway. In the Highlands High School fitness center, the teammates gather to improve their skills and prepare for their...

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A table displaying the number of users over time.

Chat GPT’s purpose in schools

Edy Hobson February 3, 2025

Students and teachers alike use Chat GPT for various purposes. Some of those include creating rubrics or getting help on a question someone could be struggling with.  However, this can also open the...

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