![Azalia Quinn fills out a mock ballot. On Thursday, Oct. 24 AP Government students did a pretend election to experience what it’s like. “If you can get [students] enthused about voting at a young age, the chances are higher that they’re going to continue this process throughout their adulthood,“ Brian Brown, the AP Gov teacher said.](https://mshsprospector.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18FGwFbMo8mtfWGnVEvaqiODxDZhuV9ipRw3DAgL-1200x960.jpg)
On Feb. 8, MSHS students and staff gave fond farewells to their former front office secretary of several years, Stacy Thomson. While Thomson is now moving to Arizona, MSHS is introducing the new office secretary, Cat Albanese, who began working in the front office last week.
Albanese’s husband worked in the district, which inspired her to as well. “My husband actually works for Ute Pass Elementary,” Albanese said. “So that’s how I learned about this job.”
Albanese believes that the transition between her previous job, and her new one works well because they both support the community. “I do live in Cascade so I live locally, and I thought that working locally and helping the kids out would be a nice transition from working at a pharmacy,” she said.
Student aides and fellow staff in the office feel that Albanese is doing an amazing job filling the spot left by Stacy Thomson. “Mrs. Thomson left some big shoes to fill, and Ms. Cat has filled them beautifully,” Hailey Troxell (12), a student aide of two years, said. “I hope that students accept Ms. Cat the way that they did Mrs. Thomson.”
Troxell has witnessed Albanese’s first week at MSHS. “She has adopted her role perfectly and I see her doing great things for the high school,” she said.
Albanese has enjoyed her time in the office so far, and enjoys spending time with students. “The kids are great, so it makes coming into work much easier,” Albanese said. “I love the student aides, they’re awesome and everybody’s been a great help here.”
Albanese is excited to have watched future graduating classes grow. “I get to see freshmen and sophomores grow up which is pretty cool,” Albanese said. “But I’m looking forward to the new year.”
She has also encouraged students to come speak with her if they’re looking for a friendly chat or support. “I’m very friendly and outgoing,” Albanese said. “If you’re having a rough day, come talk to me, I’m pretty chill.”
Troxell believes that with student aid and fellow staff support, Albanese will settle in and continue to be passionate about providing support for MSHS students and staff. “She has great office aides,” she said. “And she has done an amazing job so far.”
