What’s recently happened?
On May 17, seniors and juniors experienced the amazing rendezvous of a night in Paris for Prom. One of the sponsors of this year's prom, Junior Counselor Kristin Bernardi, shared insight as to why prom is such an important moment in high schoolers' lives.
The planning process for such a grand event is no small feat.
"Just making sure that you're organized is everything," Bernardi said. "You have to make it what you want it to be, whether you need to fundraise more or use what you have and make it as beautiful as you think it could be."
The Prom Committee, led by Bernardi and Alicia Johnson, worked tirelessly to ensure that the evening would be unforgettable.
"Miss Johnson and I worked hard to make sure that the students had a great time, that it was pretty, and that students had an overall good experience," she said.
Prom is more than just a dance; it's a memory. Bernardi reflected on what makes Prom so special.
"It's the students’ last big thing before graduation. You don't get to get dressed up like this unless it's your wedding day. It's a time for you to go and hang out with your friends and just kind of forget about graduation and grades in school. Just go dance, have fun, and be kids," said Bernardi.
However, she also acknowledged that not everyone views Prom with the same level of significance. Despite differing opinions, Bernardi believes Prom provides a valuable opportunity for students to celebrate and enjoy themselves before stepping into the next phase of their lives.
What’s coming up?
During the summer relaxation and outings, academic achievers have been able to earn the chance to receive college credit through the Early College Program.
In an educational initiative poised to transform the academic trajectory of high school students in Indiana, the Early College Program offers a golden opportunity to earn college credits before graduation. This program, facilitated through Ivy Tech Community College, is especially gaining traction during the summer months, enabling students to accelerate their learning from the comfort of their homes. Students earn a chance to gain 30 or more college credits to receive the Indiana College Core Certificate and complete their first year of college free of cost.
This approach ensures that students who are prepared for college-level coursework are allowed to advance their education.
Moreover, the financial benefits are substantial. Through earning college credits early in high school, students can save a range of $5,000 to $10,000 without tampering with their financial aid eligibility. Additionally, students who participate in dual credit are more likely to complete their degree within three to four years.
Summer classes, taught by Ivy Tech instructors, run for eight weeks and are mostly conducted online. These classes differ from regular high school courses in several ways.
"Students have a flexible schedule, with assignments and due dates clearly outlined in a calendar. The workload is manageable, averaging about 10 hours per week,” said Social Studies Teacher Jessica Castillo. “The Early College Program is one of the best programs in the city of Hammond. It is a gem. Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school. They get to come out ahead of the game and essentially spend less time on the prerequisites and more time on the major of their choice. We have many first-generation students as well as minority students.”
This program additionally assists with challenges students may face when it comes to higher education.
“Our goal is to serve those who traditionally would see barriers to higher education. We offer college exposure, tutoring, guidance, and help where help is needed. We help transfer credits, assist with Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and assist with college applications and recommendations. Outside of the fact that this program saves tons of money, it provides an opportunity for students to prepare for college and become critical thinkers,” said Castillo
For students eager to jumpstart their college education, the Early College Program through Ivy Tech stands as a hope of opportunity.
Staff spotlight:
After more than three decades of shaping young minds and fostering a love of learning, HC Physics and Digital Electronics Teacher James Bryant has retired from his teaching career.
Throughout his career, Bryant has adapted his teaching methods but remained committed to holding students to high standards.
"I want students to achieve and do well, whether they like the subject I teach or not. I want them to learn to learn and to learn to want to learn," he said.
His goal during his career was to help students realize their potential, even if that meant achieving 70% or 80% success rather than perfection.
Offering advice to new teachers, Bryant emphasized the importance of balance and professionalism.
"Be patient. Be fair. Be firm. You're a role model for your students, not a friend. If you get too friendly, you lose your position of authority,” Bryant said.
He also highlighted the importance of preparation and adaptability in teaching.
"Patience, pre-planning, and being prepared to answer unexpected questions are crucial. It’s hard to predict how students will react to a lesson,” Bryant said.
As he looks back on his career, Bryant hopes his legacy will be one of inspiring students to respect learning and to always strive for personal growth.
"I hope I leave students behind me that respect learning, that learn to respect other people with different thoughts or ideas, and that always keep growing and moving forward," said Bryant.
Post-retirement, Bryant looks forward to traveling, revisiting places he saw during his military service, and spending time on hobbies and home projects.
"I want to travel to a lot of places I went to as a Marine but as a tourist this time. I also have hobbies like building models and Legos that I've put on hold. I'm looking forward to working on our yard and spending time with my wife," said Bryant.
Student spotlight:
HC Valedictorian Tyrell Frieson, with a commendable GPA of 4.231, sets off to his college endeavors as he reflects on his roots.
His embankment for social work, complemented by a minor in psychology and sociology, demonstrates a commitment to making a meaningful impact in his community. Yet, amidst his academic pursuits, Frieson aspires to continue honing his carpentry skills – through the Hammond Area Career Center (ACC), he was able to become familiar with the task of building houses which could be an opportunity for another line of work in the future.
Despite facing a significant challenge, including the loss of his father during his freshman year amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Frieson remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. He credits his unwavering determination to his mother and the supportive educators who provided guidance and encouragement along the way.
“Everyone goes through obstacles. Mine was when my father passed my freshman year during COVID year, I could have let that just really derail my whole high school experience. I could have given up. I could have been very depressed. I could have made a lot of choices that would put me somewhere way farther from where I am today, but I would just say, ‘Mom, those are the main reasons I've had to push past those and still continue on my academic journey in and outside of school,’” said Frieson.
Throughout his high school journey, Frieson actively participated in programs such as the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program, which instilled valuable life skills and fostered personal growth. Additionally, his involvement in the football team and as a drummer in a rock band not only enhanced his confidence but also cultivated a sense of community and camaraderie and formed him to become more outspoken.
Frieson acknowledges the profound impact of his former JAG teacher, Elizabeth Mangan. Her mentorship ignited his leadership abilities, and resilience, and instilled a drive for continuous self-improvement.
As Frieson prepared to deliver his valedictory speech, he aimed to inspire his peers to appreciate the collective journey they have undertaken. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the efforts of all students and encourages them to embrace gratitude and reflection as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.
In offering advice to future and current students, Frieson imparts a message of hope and resilience, reminding them that challenges are temporary and that perseverance yields growth. He credits his peers and the diverse experiences at HC for preparing him for the realities of life beyond graduation, where interpersonal skills and adaptability are paramount.
“It gets better. No matter what is going on in your life, no matter what you lose, what you gain, what kind of season you're in, your life is always going to get better as long as you want it to. You just have to make life. You have to make your life what you wanna make out of it,” said Frieson.