The Student Voice of Forest Hills Central

The Central Trend
Many elementary schools in FHPS will transition from teaching world language to a larger focus on STEAM.
FHPS adds STEAM for JK-6 students—at the expense of world language
Technology is an educational expense that puts a burden on both FHPS and its families.
Is “back-to-school” becoming more affordable?
The Essay and Art contest is the perfect way for students to express their voice.
Entering Forest Hills’s Essay and Art Contest sets students up for success
The Ada Carnival bridges grade levels and schools to create a deeper sense of community.
As Ada Elementary’s largest community event, the Ada Carnival shows the importance of giving back
At FHC, students no longer read many of the quintessential American authors.
Is Ranger Country facing a literacy crisis?
Caroline Borchers has experienced a plethora of new things due to her adventures to the United States.
Caroline Borchers has become a better version of herself through being an exchange student from Germany
From drawing to animation, Elizabeth holds her craft near and dear to her heart and hopes to pursue such fields in the future.
From “Frozen’s” Arendelle to “Coraline’s” Other World, Elizabeth Vorel found a passion for animation and all things art
Although not official TED Talks, FHCs armature version of these speeches have had many changes this school year.
The English 10 classes have traditionally given TED Talks as a cornerstone to the curriculum, but now that the class has changed, so have the speeches
Teagan uses her ability to show kindness to others to be able to thrive socially.
Using her kindness and care for others, Teagan Cumming makes it her goal to become a role model for others
Summer courses can provide opportunities for advancement, but at the cost of in-person learning experiences.
Virtual summer courses: do the benefits of acceleration outweigh learning detriments?
Caroline Borchers has experienced a plethora of new things due to her adventures to the United States.
Caroline Borchers has become a better version of herself through being an exchange student from Germany
From drawing to animation, Elizabeth holds her craft near and dear to her heart and hopes to pursue such fields in the future.
From “Frozen’s” Arendelle to “Coraline’s” Other World, Elizabeth Vorel found a passion for animation and all things art
Teagan uses her ability to show kindness to others to be able to thrive socially.
Using her kindness and care for others, Teagan Cumming makes it her goal to become a role model for others
Anna Morris uses her motivation to make sure her goals are fulfilled.
Originating from her childhood dreams of being a doctor, Anna Morris stays persistent in striving to achieve her goals
Kendall Alexander has grown closer to her family through nightly Jeopardy games.
Kendall Alexander finds herself purposely putting herself into Jeopardy and prospering
2025 Fall Play Q&As - The Crucible Crew
2025 Fall Play Q&As – The Crucible Crew
2025 Fall Play Q&As - The Crucible Cast
2025 Fall Play Q&As – The Crucible Cast
2025 Homecoming Court Q&As
2025 Homecoming Court Q&As
As seen in the graph, beef is by far the most impactful and non-sustainable food source in America, compared to other meats.
Q&A with Grand Rapids Education and Engagement Coordinator Kat Hart about the Climate Action and Adaption Plan
Forest Hills Public Schools School Board President Kristen Fauson 2022
Q&A with FHC school board president Kristen Fauson
My moments with you from the past two years have made it incredibly hard to say goodbye.
Late August angst
The three best spring animes to watch this season
The three best spring animes to watch this season
Every year, the dandelion's golden crown becomes a coat of wishes, giving me no time to appreciate its shining hue.
A final editor’s column: the cycle of lemonade stands, dandelions, columns, and goodbyes
Though its predecessor is clearly superior, "How Did We Get Here?" is a charming album that showcases The Figs' ability to experiment with folk
Though its predecessor is clearly superior, “How Did We Get Here?” is a charming album that showcases The Figs’ ability to experiment with folk
Though this T-shirt isn't the most popular, the belief itself is widespread enough that I feel the need to challenge it.
“Youth Against Christ” is pointlessly and paradoxically ignorant
Though its predecessor is clearly superior, "How Did We Get Here?" is a charming album that showcases The Figs' ability to experiment with folk
Though its predecessor is clearly superior, “How Did We Get Here?” is a charming album that showcases The Figs’ ability to experiment with folk
While the second half of "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.," redeemed parts of its unfavorable first half, it is not without its faults.
Harry Styles’ fourth studio album, “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.,” is okay all the time. Good, occasionally: Part Two
While Harry Styles hoped to formulate a novel artistry in this album, he ultimately succumbed to mundanity.
Harry Styles’ fourth studio album, “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.,” is okay all the time. Good, occasionally: Part One
TOMORROW X TOGETHER's newest mini-album, "The 7th Year: A Moment of Stillness in the Thorns" deserves more recognition.
TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s “The 7th Year: A Moment of Stillness in the Thorns” is as existential and dramatic as it sounds
Two seasons in a row, "The Pitt" remains television perfection
Two seasons in a row, “The Pitt” remains television perfection
My moments with you from the past two years have made it incredibly hard to say goodbye.
Late August angst
Every year, the dandelion's golden crown becomes a coat of wishes, giving me no time to appreciate its shining hue.
A final editor’s column: the cycle of lemonade stands, dandelions, columns, and goodbyes
Junior year brought me a lot of amazing people, but with a cost.
Junior year: thank goodness it’s over
Pickleball, along with other small activities, has helped me become closer with friends.
Pickleball will always be a constant
I always seem to find the positives, but maybe at the wrong times.
I yearn for the things I can’t have
Though this T-shirt isn't the most popular, the belief itself is widespread enough that I feel the need to challenge it.
“Youth Against Christ” is pointlessly and paradoxically ignorant
Long periods of time in front of a crowd is extremely beneficial for students.
Public speaking—a fear among many high schoolers—needs to be taught to students worldwide
Though women's sports have expanded drastically over the years, the same cannot be said for women coaching women's sports.
After decades without reform, female sports need more female coaches
Being with people who don't put aside your opinion or emotions can improve mental health.
“It wasn’t that deep,” is a phrase that can carry more than many may think
James Charles is involved in yet another controversy, this time making fun of a women who lost her job to the Spirit Airlines bankruptcy.
“Welcome to the real world,” is a bold statement from one who has never experienced financial struggle—another James Charles controversy
The three best spring animes to watch this season
The three best spring animes to watch this season
Instead of combating your summer boredom with doom scrolling, run to your nearest craft store and get creative.
This summer, beat boredom through these unique, rewarding arts and crafts
Planning ahead of time not only makes the application process much easier, but it also allows students to enjoy a stress free summer.
A guide to avoiding the stress of college applications
As Lollapalooza rolls around, make sure your stylistic choices are just as formulaic as they are comfortable.
At Lollapalooza, dress to impress without sacrificing comfort
Summer break is one of the only chances to get a break from school, so it is best to make it last.
The three best ways to make the most out of summer break
Photo Gallery: Senior Recognition 2026
Photo Gallery: Senior Recognition 2026
Photo Gallery: Lauren Quada and Nolan Bateson Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Lauren Quada and Nolan Bateson Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Juliana Gole and Ian El-Said Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Juliana Gole and Ian El-Said Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Peyton Robinson and Elijah Oppenhuizen Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Peyton Robinson and Elijah Oppenhuizen Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Georgia Miller and Nick Derbin Winterfest Lip Sync
Photo Gallery: Georgia Miller and Nick Derbin Winterfest Lip Sync
The Student Voice of Forest Hills Central

The Central Trend
The Student Voice of Forest Hills Central

The Central Trend
Kaila Kotas

Kaila Kotas, Photographer

Staff Photographer

Kaila is going onto her second year of being on staff, as the photographer. She takes all the pictures that the magazine and the website needs. Kaila is the Student director for theater and will be working under Demeester this year. Out of school she works two jobs, Arby’s and Tropical smoothie.  Kaila loves being a part of The Central Trend because it allows her to be creative and do something she loves.

  • Favorite thing about being on staff: Working with all these amazing people!
  • Hobbies/Interests:Theater,basketball, friends/family
  • If it Friday night: You will probably see Kaila out with her friends, driving around, jamming to some music and going on some crazy adventures.
All content by Kaila Kotas
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