What has happened:
The Whiting Band and Choir Christmas Concert went very well this year. It started with NHS and was followed by the Middle School Band. On the last song of the performance, the Whiting High School Band joined in, playing Canon on Christmas. Following the middle school and high school’s performance together, the High School Choir was brought in to sing four Christmas songs, one being a well-harmonized song between the sopranos and altos.
The band was the final performance, playing six songs beautifully. On the last song, they brought in alumni for a final rendition of A Festive Christmas Celebration. Being able to include both choir and band alumni in the celebration of Christmas was enjoyable for all Whiting students.
Before winter break began, the seniors celebrated Christmas with a Senior Holiday Breakfast on the last day. It began before school at 6 a.m, and ended before school started at 7:30. The senior class provided a variety of breakfast food includingpancakes, waffles, sausage, bacon, eggs, and beverages. There was also a raffle for a chance to win gift cards and an ugly Christmas sweater contest for the chance to win a Keurig coffee machine! Senior Elizabeth was the winner of the contest thanks to her exotic Christmas sweater!
The holiday breakfast was a memorable bonding activity for the seniors before they leave to enjoy their last high school winter break. They played Christmas music and enjoyed a nice breakfast together. For senior class secretary Parker Jennings, “Being able to talk to everyone before starting break, to hear their plans, was fun.”
What’s coming up:
The Band and Choir Solo and Ensemble competition is coming up this January. A walk past the band room will allow you to hear the soloists practicing for the upcoming show. Both the choir and band have chosen songs from the ISSMA list that they prefered. In the division 1 song list, those who obtain a gold in the competition will be able to continue on to the state competition in Indianapolis. After the competition, the band and choir will celebrate their achievements with a trip to Buca Di Beppo, a dinner tradition each year.
The Whiting High School Play is another exciting event coming up. This year, the drama club is performing Disney’s musical Freaky Friday. It is a humorous play about a mother and daughter whohave a hard time understanding each other, causing them to switch lives. The two characters arespotlighted all throughout the play, highlighting both the struggle and purpose in each of their lives. It is set to be an exciting musical in March that students and director Mr. Allen are excited to show after their hard work.
Student Spotlight:
Sergio Hernandez is a studious senior who is always trying new things. He has participated in cross-country, National Honor Society, student council, and Science Olympiad. Hernandez is a hard worker in both academics and extracurriculars.
Hernandez is currently taking three AP classes duringthe second trimester, of which include computer science, calculus, and language and composition. On top of those courses, he began working with Science Olympiad this year. He is a part of the C team and medaled in circuit lab at the Whiting Invite. Hernandez is the type of individual who sets a goal and works hard to achieve it.
Not only does he work well in academics, but also in different activities at school. He participates in most all events to make his and others’ senior years’ worth it. He helped in building dances and upcoming senior events such as breakfasts, the picnic, and various decisions for graduation festivities. He is also an avid volunteer on behalf of NHS, attending festivals, bake sales, care centers, and charity events around Whiting.
Hernandez is an attentive, active, and polite student. He challenges himself and prepares for his future. He plans to graduate and continue his learning by studying computer science, while also working on his hobbies of fitness and photography. It is safe to say he is someone who does the most for his future and the future of others.