What’s recently happened?
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology (HAST) hosted its annual evening of cultural representation and diversity in the school gym.
“It was nice to see everyone come together in honor of Black History Month and see what everyone offered. There was a small tango dance to represent its history and I really enjoyed that,” Junior Lynette Montes said.
The event was hosted on February 26. People from different ethnic backgrounds came together to inform others on their college houses, small businesses, food, and more.
“I really did learn a lot about different houses in various colleges. I learned about small businesses as well ranging from 3D prints to lemonade grown in someone's farm. It made me realize how there are endless possibilities and everyone has their own path no matter where they came from,” Senior Leah Lopez-Morales said.
In the end, the event was very successful. It offered food and beverages, trivia questions and prizes for those who answered, and included students all throughout the night.
What’s coming up?
Spring break is finally coming for HAST students and runs from March 21-28.
“I was so happy to hear how close the break is. With everything going on in my life, given that my friends and I are all seniors, we really need this break. College is the main thing on my mind right now and keeping up with my school work has become such a job. I know this is my last spring break in high school ever so I’m gonna make sure to really enjoy it,” Senior Lyila Vega said.
Spring break is a huge reliever to students all throughout the HAST community. It’s a chance to give students a break from all of their hard work before resuming again.
“I plan on enjoying my free time this break. Work, friends, and family are really all on my agenda. I think I’ll even pause the college stuff since I have everything figured out already so that's amazing for me. I’m excited for the following week and the break,” Senior Emalie Patino said.
Staff spotlight:
Danielle Lopez has been a member of the HAST committee as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher for the past two years.
“I started out as a special education teacher. I didn’t even know there was something like an ESL teacher until my daughter started attending the dual-language program at Irving Elementary School in Hammond. I knew then that I wanted to help students who speak another language besides English. I was able to become the first ESL teacher at HAST, and I have been creating the program to help struggling students. I appreciate the school for giving me the opportunity to work with this special group of students. My goal is to make every child feel welcome and accepted for who they are, how they speak, and to embrace their heritage cultural identity including their language,” Lopez said.
Inside the HAST community, Lopez has been an assistant coach of the Chess Team and helped them enter competitions for the first time in years, bringing both individuals and teams to the State competition. She has also started co-directing theater this year. Next year, Lopez plans to be a co-sponsor of the class of 2029 with her co-teacher Senora Saavedra.
During her free time, Lopez enjoys spending time with her family and traveling, especially to Mexico, and visiting her husband’s family. She also enjoys cooking, sewing and crafting. Cooking recipes from around the world is a positive challenge and de-stressor for Lopez.
“Outside of HAST, I am involved with my congregation and support my husband with our Spanish ministry Iglesia de Cristo en Hammond. We have been on two preaching trips to Colombia, and I was able to support the work by teaching Bible classes for children and ladies. I really enjoy spreading the gospel in both English and Spanish,” Lopez said.
Student spotlight:
Keyla Morales has been a student at HAST for the past three years since her eighth grade year.
“Now that I’m in the second semester of my sophomore year, it’s getting more serious. My teachers began telling us to start studying for the PSAT and SAT. I don't think it's fully registered with us that we’ll soon be taking both exams and become upperclassmen in just a few months. While I am nervous, I’m excited to see what else is waiting for me during my next two years here at HAST,” Morales said.
Morales has been in a mock trial club during her time at HAST and plans to join a sport soon as well.
“I can’t wait to get into new classes that will lead me to what I want to do in life. The closer I get to finishing my high school career, the more scared I get but I love the anticipation as well. I’ve made it my personal goal to do well in school and hope for the best,” Morales said.
During her free time, Morales enjoys baking, reading, and hanging out with friends.