MHS Crier 4 25 14

munster high school Vol. 48 / Issue 11 / April 25, 2014 / Munster High School 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster IN 46321

INSIDE LOOK

crier Best of the best

Saturday

Lake county schools differ in attendance rate, with Munster pulling rank

53/41

Munster High School

68/47

97.1

Sunday

percent Griffith High School

96.9 percent

Up and coming Baseball will compete against Morton tonight at home at 4:45 p.m.

Lake Central School

96.2

Boys’ Varsity Golf plays tonight at home at 4:00 p.m.

percent

Highland High School

96.1 percent

Follow Student Government Election at @CrierMHS or at MHSnow.wordpress. com

Carmel High School

95.7

percent

Hammond High School

95.4 percent

Last show

Juniors step up to help produce the show and seniors prepare for the last show of the season

page 2 Time out

Various students referee for Club out love for sport

page 14 Upcoming Events Various concerts come to town during the summer

page 10

Learning Curve

Students, teachers, student teachers discuss the benefits of student teaching

page 15

Practice perfection Band hopes to perform well at the state qualifier competition May 3

page 5

Extravagance

“Great Gatsby” themed prom causes extravagant plans

page 8-9

Source: Indiana Department of Education photo by Alisa Muñoz

THE MISSING

PERCENT Cassie Eberle Editor-in-chief

S

Victoria Avina Associate Editor

itting in her office before school, Ms. Ally Novotney, attendance secretary, listens to anywhere from 50-100 voice mails consisting of phone calls from parents calling off their students from school.

“The mornings are really busy,” Ms. Novotney said. “When parents call, they usually will get the voice mail because so many calls come in. I am also dealing with students coming in late and figuring out who needs what passes for the day. I like being busy, and I don’t get a lot of complaints about my work.”

Ms. Novotney then spends the rest of the day editing the attendance taken by the teachers. She changes unexcused to excused absences if a parent calls and also documents upcoming field trips, along with a manifold of other duties.

“The biggest challenge is parents that don’t call off their kids,” Ms. Novotney said. “I have to call parents during the day to find students. I call every student’s’ parents that are marked absent. It is more of a security issue though. Did they make it

School board will vote on proposed changes to absence policy in May; changes would enforce a more strict policy about alloted seven absences before receiving no credit for class, hoping to improve attendance rate and set uniform standards for teachers

to school? If a student is absent without a parent calling, I ask ‘where are they’?”

According to the current school policy, students can accumulate a total of seven excused absences before facing repercussions. Once the teacher records the eighth absence, a student can fail the class based on teacher discretion.

“I have never failed anyone because of absences,” Mr. Larry Hautzinger, science teacher, said. “Usually if they had that many absences, they failed because of grades and missing work.”

Next year however, the policy might change. Proposed by Mr. Morgan Nolan, assistant principal, the new policy aims to create fairness for the teachers.

“We did an evaluation last year and something many teachers said was that they almost felt like they were on an island when it came to attendance policies,” Mr. Nolan said. “They wanted a blanket policy.

This is just that.”

The school will still allow only a total of seven excused absences per student; however, regardless of the teacher, the student will fail the class after the eighth excused

absence is recorded.

The student must continue the class as if they are still receiving credit. When the student completes the course, he or she has the option to appeal the failure by writing a letter explaining the reasons for the missed days.

“A good reason would be if a student doesn’t have any health care. It is an undue burden to them,” Mr. Nolan said. “A bad reason would be your alarm clock won’t wake you up in the morning for school.”

The student would then meet with their guidance counselor, an administrator and the teacher whose class the student may not receive credit for. They then make the final decision.

“I think that the new way is much better because personally I’m not a fan of the absence policy,” Joe Gallagher, senior said.

“I’ve only been absent once this year and it was excused to a college visit. If you are absent 7 times and you fail a grade, you should be allowed to appeal to that because it’s a big deal.”

continued on pg. 2

2 FIDDLING AROUND NEWS

Crier / April 25, 2014

Quick Notes DECA DECA will compete against over 300 teams May 1-7 in Atlanta After DECA won State, over 30 members will compete at Internationals in Atlanta from May 1-7.

Although DECA’s win at State serves as their seventh consecutive championship, Calvin Sanders, senior, knows that the team needs to continue working hard in order to ensure future success.

“It takes repetition and getting comfortable with the materials in order to do well,” Calvin said. “This winning streak pulled a lot more challenges. We have to make sure we work hard because there are still other schools that can break our record.”

With their last show underway, seniors’ emotions develop as “Fiddler on the Roof” debuts May 1 Jordan Szymanski Beat Reporter “Fiddler on the Roof” debuts May 1-4. As the actors and crew prepare, the show promises a heartfelt and lively ending to the theater season, according to the cast and crew.

“I think the play will be really good,”Laurel Demkovich, junior, said. ”Everyone has put a lot of hard work in it: the actors, crew and Lab (Dr. Larry A. Brechner, theater director). But it will be bittersweet being it’s the senior’s last show.”

As the choreographer, Laurel started dancing at three years old and took on theater in seventh grade. Her favorite dance for the play, “The Wedding Dance,” includes the entire cast, which made it the most challenging choreography, according to Laurel.

“It’s hard to figure out where to place 75-80 people and still have enough space for good choreography,” Laurel said.

With challenges come rewards as chorus member, Samantha Naurcy, freshman, promises the musical’s soundtrack and acting will have it all, including both energy and emotion. “(The song) ‘Matchmaker’ is so involved and has so much personality. It will make you smile,” Samantha said.

“But, (the song) ‘Sunrise, Sunset’ is so slow and emotional, it can be hard to go down to it after a happy scene.”

Samantha enjoys the togetherness of theater and thought that auditioning for “Fiddler on the Roof” would work well in her favor.

“It’s like a family,” Samantha said. “And when you put that together in a professional way, it looks really good.”

The theater family transforms their chemistry on stage as they portray the various roles of a Jewish family in Russia during the 1900’s. As the three daughters come of age on stage, off stage the cast prepares to graduate their seniors as well.

Of the seniors, Steven Caraher’s biggest responsibility as president resembles that of a poster man for theater.

“I just keep Munster Theater going, but I don’t handle much, it’s mostly Dr. Brechner. I’m more of a representative,” Steven said.

“Fiddler on the Roof,” Steven’s last show, contains

Robotics Robotics will travel to St. Louis April 2326 for their international competition

photo by Natalia Bilek

GETTING INTO CHARACTER During a rehearsal, Morgan Papesh, senior, belts out the song “Matchmaker”. “The song is a challenge,” Morgan said. “We sing in a three part harmony while throwing brooms.”

mixed emotions concerning his departure.

“I thought it would be a lot sadder,” Steven said. “But I feel it’s time to move on. Although I would like to go out with a bang and I feel ‘Fiddler’ is a great show to do that with.”

Preparing for his future has not eclipsed his past as he hopes that the Munster Theater Company will continue ion on in stride.

“I would love to see Munster continue to produce wonderful shows and grow in being a wonderful and full theater program,” Steven said.

‘The missing percent ‘ continued from pg. 1 Under both policies, a student can miss up to seven days of excused absences. These include almost every reason for an absence besides educationally related absences, funerals and court appearances.

“I understand the point that you missed too much of class time to comprehend what we’re learning, but 7 absences seems to little,” Maddie Sharmat, senior, said.

“I think there are some classes where you don’t have to show up everyday. Classes post stuff on Moodle anyway and others don’t have much material where you have to show up everyday.”

During the 2010-2011 school year, research lead by the Center for Evaluation and Education Policy (CEEP) revealed that 28.65 percent of high school students fall under the category of possessing severe chronic absences, defined as missing 20 percent or more of days in the school year. 20.94 percent of students fall under the category of chronic absences caused by missing 10 percent or more days in the school year.

Munster, on the other hand, does not suffer from those same statistics, according to Mr. Nolan.

“We have an 98 percent attendance rate,” Mr. Nolan said. “That puts us in the top five or six schools in the state. The schools in front of us have similar policies.”

However, the school continues to aim for higher attendance rates, according to Mr. Nolan.

Additional research conducted by CEEP found that 88

percent of the students who missed fewer than five days graduated in 2010, compared to the 24 percent of graduates who missed 18 or more days in an average school year.

“You can survive having a couple of absences,” Mr. Hautzinger said. “But when you start racking up a bunch of them, that’s when you get behind and it’s hard to catch up.”

In addition, their research also revealed that in the state of Indiana, “attendance is a key factor in promoting academic achievement for students of all ages and demographic backgrounds.”

“If you miss notes or if you have a large assignment like an essay, then it will have a major influence on someone’s grade, especially if it’s school related,” Joe said. “If, it’s say, a vacation or something that is unexcused then at least you will have a chance to finish your homework, but if its from an illness you will be 7 days behind per say.”

In addition to students missing school, Ms. Novotney finds that tardies also cause a lot of issues within the school. In an average morning, she deals with 15-25 tardy students needing passes to first hour.

“I feel bad for first period teachers because of the students who arrive late to class,” Ms. Novotney said. “Its difficult to have class with students interrupting. It interrupts instructional mode. Keeping tight attendance is needed for a school the size we have.”

The Robotics team heads to the international competition in St. Louis on April 23-26, to face off against over 300 teams to prove that the underdogs can become champions, according to sponsor Ms. Catherine Mazeikas, science teacher.

“The team is very excited, anxious, nervous and kind of scared. It’s new experiences for all of us.” Leo Ortiz, sophomore, said. “We’re new to the whole thing.”

For the first time in the five years of the team’s official existence, they finally made it to the international competition where teams from various countries come together to compete in a fight for technology advancement, according to Ms. Mazeikas.

Student handbook School board will approve or deny handbook changes in May Mr. Morgan Nolan and Mr. Richard Snyder proposed changes in the handbook for the upcoming school year.

Some of the policy changes include the bullying policy, technology, building hours and smoking.

The state requires the school to change bullying policy and procedures.

They made building hour changes due to the fact that the school no longer has zero hour. Next year the school will open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 3:00 p.m.

“It’s changing because we don’t have anyone supervising,” Mr. Nolan said.

The school added E-cigarettes and nicotine gum to the banned substances on school grounds.

“There has been a rising issue with E-cigarettes and so we wanted to make sure we covered ourselves,” Mr. Nolan said.

In addition, the school will count the 8 semesters in total rather than the usual 7 semesters.

“It don’t think it will stop any senoritis but I think it has to be fair,” Mr. Nolan said.

Corrections

The following names were misspelled: the Chief of Police Stephen Scheckel, and Julia Swibes. It was Adam Richter in the Weighing the Odds photo not Alex Richer. The photographer of Winding Up was misidentified. The photo was shot

by Natalia Bilek, not Gabrielle Dore. The Crier regrets its errors.

speakout Crier / April 25, 2014

BACKTALK

3

What is an issue you feel people should be more aware of and why?

“AIDS because it is bad and effects a million people without them knowing.”

“Cyberbullying.

Children and teens are increasingly committing suicide due to digital communication.”

Ben Stifflar, freshman

Sarah Ladd, freshman

“Obesity because I think it is taking years off of people’s lives and they don’t even realize it.”

“We should fight stereotypes because we are so quick to judge people based on their clothes but not their personality.”

Clay Arnold, sophomore

Megan Mirowski, sophomore

editorial

APPROVING THE APPEAL

As the school finalizes handbook changes for next year, a new take on the attendance policy has arisen.

This year, a student can gather up to seven excused absences before the teacher of the class may choose whether or not the student receives credit for the class. However, under the change in poliOUR TAKE cy proposed by Mr. Morgan Nolan, assistant principal, The proposed the student would automatichanges to the cally lose credit for the class. attendance policy The student may appeal will improve students this failure in a meeting with and faculty an approved board consisting of the teacher, a counselor and an administrator, but will only be approved for credit if there is a valid reason for the absences.

Although Munster already boasts a 98 percent attendance rate, according to Mr. Nolan, this pol-

icy will pose no harm to students.

If students do use more than their seven excused absences, the policy could benefit students.

Now, students could appeal the decision if their excuse is valid. Therefore, students with legitimate excuses for their absence would not receive repercussions for missing school.

Additionally, this proposed policy could benefit faculty as well. Now, absence policies will be a unified front; instead of the ambiguity of one teacher allowing more than eight absences and another failing students upon the eighth absence automatically, the whole school will follow this.

It will no longer remain a matter of whether or not a teacher will allow it and favorites cannot be played. Unless a valid reason is provided, all students receive the same consequence.

If the new attendance policy is to pass, it may benefit both students and faculty greatly.

Stressing the need for funding GUEST COLUMNIST

It is 12:19 a.m. on Therese Capriglione Wednesday night, and I have just memorized Shakespeare, studied for two tests and a quiz, completed multiple homework packets and studied for DECA. And now, I’m writing a column. Late night homework, studying and stressing is not uncommon for MHS students, but it is unhealthy.

If our schools are causing stress, then they should provide services to help us alleviate it. Students are feeling this stress, but MHS is not offering us many resources to help mitigate it.

However, the U.S. government seems to be the blame, not the school.

The U.S. government’s 2014 fiscal year spending includes 30 percent discretionary spending. Of that 30 percent, 6 percent goes to education and a whopping 57 percent goes to military, according to the National Priorities Organization. Yes, the government is placing the importance of drone strikes above the importance of the education, and it is showing.

This lack of funding affects the mental health services that students need due to school-induced stress.

Mr. Robert Snyder, Director of Guidance, stated that adding four more counselors, specifically for emotional counseling, would be beneficial to MHS, but the funds to provide these jobs simply are not available.

Students dealing with these feelings

Crier Crier, Munster High School’s official student newspaper, may be reached at 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321, phone 219-836-3200, Ext. 3443; Fax: 219-836-3202. Published by the Honors Newspaper Advanced Writing and Editing classes, and extra-curricular involvement.

•The newspaper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for the school and community.•Crier is a source of information, entertainment, advertising and opinion for the student body, faculty, administration and community •Published material will stress objective reporting except on the editorial page where opinion writing will be featured. All published material will stress accuracy, truthfulness, integrity, honesty, responsibility, objectivity, fairness and independence.

Opinions expressed in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration.

should be provided with an emotional counselor in the same way they are provided with an academic counselor.

If federal and state funding for education was increased, schools could successfully implement mental health services within schools nationwide to give students a place to rejuvenate and alleviate stress during the school day.

Chronic stress causes mental and physical health risks. If students had the opportunity to talk with an emotional counselor during a school day, then they would be able to healthfully reduce stress.

Fighting for that scholarship or that A on your exam will never be easy for students, but we each deserve to have a school-funded outlet to ease the stress that the pressures of school cause.

“People should be more aware of what they’re saying to others because sometimes they take it too far.”

Jai Dharla, junior

“Military personnel are paid too little.

Senators and politicians earn way more than military personnel who sacrifice day in and day out.”

Arturo Ortiz, senior

Letters to the Editor are welcomed, but should be limited to 250 words. All letters must be signed and should be given directly to any staff member or delivered to the Pub, N155, one week prior to publication. Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual. Editors reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and grammatical errors. Crier will accept letters from anyone, provided that the content pertains to school or school issues.

Subscriptions cost $4 per semester or $6.50 per school year. Mailed subscriptions cost $18 per year. Ad rates and policies are available to anyone upon request. Crier is published 13 times a school year.

The Staff Editor-in-Chief Cassie Eberle Managing Editor Jordan Cockrum Associate Editor Victoria Avina Lifestyles Editor Meena Kandallu

“I think people should be more aware of social media bullying. It is one thing to say hurtful things in person, but to hide behind a screen is a new kind of low.”

Hannah Witting, junior

“We are in danger of a very serious environmental crisis.

If people don’t become aware of this and contribute to finding solutions, we could face global devastation.”

Mrs. Jennifer Dettlo, Spanish teacher

Sports Editor William Hatczel News Editor Max Baker Social Media Director Alisa Muñoz Business Manager Vrusha Patel Head Photographer Gabrielle Dore Photographers Christopher Anguiano, Alex Baker, Natalia Bilek, Cesar Camacho, Chelsea Eickleberry, Casey Gouwens, Lauren Koultourides, Pam Muangmingsuk, Alisa Muñoz Cartoonist Julia Torres Beat Reporters Arianna Adams, Erin Gallagher, Amanda Jones, Lexie Lyons, Danie Oberman, Julian Ramirez, Jordan Szymanski, Mariah Villaroman, Chloe Wineinger Adviser Sarah-Anne Lanman

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NEWS Crier / April 25, 2014

FROM THE

GROUND UP

Environmental Club celebrated Earth Day Victoria Avina Associate Editor Members of the environmental club celebrated Earth Day Tuesday.

“We kind of just try to raise awareness and why it’s important to be environmentally friendly,” Co-president Jessica Avina, senior, said.

The members hung posters the day before consisting of tips to help students conserve energy and promote environmentally friendly behaviors, according to Co-president Nikki Mammano, senior.

“The program empowered me to make a difference and to bring awareness to other people about the environment,” Nikki said. “People should become aware of environment issues and their actions.”

Nikki developed an interest in starting an environmental club after participating in a leadership program over the summer.

“I went to an environmental leadership program called Washington Youth Leadership on the Environment (WYSE),” Nikki said. “The program inspired me to do something good for the environment. That’s when I decided to start the environmental club.”

The program sent out invitations to nominated students. Although Nikki does not know who nominated her, she feels grateful to have the chance to learn more about her future career.

“When I got it in the mail, I had a spark of, ‘this is what I’ve always wanted to do’,” Nikki said. “I’ve al-

ways been pretty environmentally conscious.”

While Nikki feels concern for environmental affairs, her love of nature and the out doors stemmed from bonding with her family in Virgina, according to Nikki.

“When I was little, my mom would always take us hiking in the Virgina mountains, so I was always surrounded by nature and I fell in love with it,” Nikki said. “Being in nature makes me feel free and at peace with the world.

It makes me have a peace of mind.”

Nikki tries to expose the members of environmental club to various environmental activities, such as taking them to field trips to the zoo and the dunes, as well as, having the members plant in the courtyard.

The members of environmental club also tries to find ways to make the school more eco-friendly; however, the club stands as unofficial, preventing them from doing so.

“We wanted to fundraise to plant trees, but we couldn’t because we were restricted from being unofficial,” Nikki said. “We couldn’t hang the posters up as a club. It had to be through the AP Environmental Science class.”

Although remaining unofficial restricts the members, Mrs. Shanna Siegers, science teacher, feels satisfied that she can spend time with kids who share her passion.

“Environmental issues are close to my heart, so it’s nice to be with a group of kids who have the same attitude.“ Mrs. Siegers said.

photo by Chris Anguiano

COLOR GREEN While coloring one of the environmental club posters, Ashley Hwang, senior, hopes she is making a diffrence. “I joined, because Iwanted to make an impact on my world.” Ashley said.

Academic Superbowl team travels to state competition Academic Super Bowl team will travel to Purdue to compete at State competition May 10 and a screen with a 25 question PowerPoint projected onto.

“The format of the tournament lets me converse The Academic Super Bowl teams competed April with my team members before making a final deci22 at the district competition at Purdue University in sion,” Walker said.

Each team’s captain’s job pertains to finalizing anMerrillville.

The team placed first in Fine Arts, math, Social swers sent to the proctor and to make sure everyone Studies, and science, and placed 2nd in Interdisci- on their team practiced sufficiently.

“I lead others in prepping and reading for the next plinary and English. The English, math, science, and Social Studies team will continue onto State May 10 tournament,” Walker said.

To prepare for their at Purdue Lafayette. tournaments, the team “(I am) definitely Learning time members practice using pleased,” captain Walk- Member of the Academic Super Bowl a variety of methods deer Hedgepath, junior, team explain the six divisions of the team pending on what subject said. “The last time Sothey study. cial Studies made it to Time Period: Western Expansion Fine Arts: “I like competitions, state finals was during Social Studies: and since I’m good at my freshman year. It’s a Study the history of the Study artists and architects of time the time those subjects (math, scipleasure to know that I’ll ence and Interdisciplinhave the privilege of go- Science: English:

ecosystems and Study literary works of the ary), I want to compete ing to finals as a captain Study animals during the time against others,” math this time.” time team captain Kevin Fuhs, Academic Super Bowl Math: Interdisciplinary: junior, said. “It helps me consists of six teams. Study mathematics and Answers questions on all five improve my skills.”

Each team answered mathematicians of the time subjects Kevin attributes a lot questions based on their specific subjects in a jeopsource: Charles DeCesaris, junior of his team’s success in practicing and tournaardy-like tournament. ments to the coach, Mr. “It’s the only extra-curricular I’m in that sticks purely to academic fields,” Patrick O’Niell, science teacher.

“We have a really good coach,” Kevin said. “He’s Walker said. “It’s a good way to apply what I learn really brought our programs to a whole new level. at school at a tournament level.”

Each subject has its own team which competes in He encourages people to take things seriously and their individual tournament. The tournaments hap- practice.”

Last year, the team placed second in the state overpened in a room with tables for each town’s team

Chloe Wineinger Beat Reporter

all, owing largely to the fact that they had high scores in all six subjects. The team’s best event was math that took third at State. Science and Interdisciplinary both placed fourth, Fine Arts placed sixth, and English and Social Studies both placed top 20.

“I think we have a pretty strong team. Everyone is very dedicated and are experts on their subjects,” Fine Arts captain Danica Obradovic, senior, said.

Mr. O’Neill also hoped the team had a strong chance of doing well based on last year’s results.

“Academic Super Bowl is one of the most widespread extracurriculars in Indiana with over 300 schools participating in some years, so these ranks are really awesome,” Mr. O’Neill said. “We graduated some very strong seniors last year, but also have a very strong team this year.”

Some of the members worried about the team’s ability to qualify for state competition. After competition however, the members felt they competed well in the time they had.

“I think we did the best we could do in the time given, but I mean there’s always room for improvement,” Danica said.

Others felt that they needed more time to study for the competition.

“It’d always be nice to have more time to review our book,” Walker said. “We made some silly mistakes.”

Learning from these mistakes will help the teams going to State perform better.

“It’s been wonderful working with my teammates these last few weeks, but now it’s time to buckle down and work harder than ever before,” Walker said. “This competition is hopefully a foretelling of some great accomplishments at state this year.”

NEWS Crier / April 25, 2014

STATE of

SOUNDS

The Wind Ensemble band will compete May 3 in a State Qualifiers Competition which will determine if they advance to their state competition Erin Gallagher Beat Reporter The Wind Ensemble band will compete at the state qualifiers competition May 3 at Chesterton High School. This competition will decide if they will advance to the state competition.

After disappointing eighth place at Marching State, the band vigorously prepares for the state qualifiers competition.

A vengeance developed since, according to Drum Major Garrett Zuck, junior.

“The ghosts of the past have been motivating them (the band),” Mr. Bret Winternheimer, Band Director, said. “It has really set the standard for expectations now.”

To prepare for this competition, the band practices every day in class, two nights a week from 6-8, and once a week for an hour they have sectional practice where they split up by instrument.

After losing many seniors last year, the band members plan to prove themselves, according to Mr. Winternheimer. This year’s group portrays a different learning curve that brings them closer together.

“We lost a lot of seniors last year, so this year is really about proving that we can be just as good as the graduated upperclassman,” Garrett said.

At the upcoming competition, the band will perform three pieces: “Conga del Fuego,” “Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite” and “Lincolnshire Posy”.

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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT (left) At band practice, Jeremy Murphy,sophomore (left), John Kapitan,senior (center), and Kayetan Wozniak, junior (right), stay after school, preparing for competition. “It’s really nice to go to competitions, because people come just to hear you and judge you on how you sound,” Kayetan said. BASS CLEF Working with his bass, Joe Gallagher, senior, focuses all his attention on playing his piece for the band. photos by Pam Muangmingsuk

The bands upbeat performance of “Conga del Fuego” makes people want to dance throughout the song, according to band members.

“It’s a really fun song (Conga del Fuego).

I think our sound flows the best during it,” percussionist Emily Hammermeister, junior, said.

The emotional piece, “Lincolnshire Posy”, on the other hand, emphasizes each section of the band in its own way, according to Winternheimer.

“It is definitely our most difficult piece,” Mr. Winternheimer said. “We will need to perform it well if we want to win.”

The band will perform some of the hardest music they have ever performed this year. The music itself motivates the students to work harder and practice more, according to Emily.

“I want to be better than we were last year since we didn’t play at the level we are capable of. I want to keep practicing so we don’t have any regrets,” Emily said.

The band will compete against the top concert bands in the state at the competition on May 3. They have advanced to State for the past three years and will hopefully make it the fourth, according to Mr. Winternheimer. If they advance to State, the band will perform the following weekend at Lawrence High School.

“We’re a really hardworking group that has the potential to do well. We just have to make it happen,” Garret said.

Best buddies hosts annual Friendship Walk Best Buddies fourth annual Friendship Walk Sunday, May 18 promotes Best Buddy ideals Amanda Jones Beat Reporter Best Buddies will host the fourth annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk Sunday, May 18 at Crown Point High School, to promote the ideas of Best Buddies.

“You can meet people you would have never met before,” sponsor Mr. Brent Barton, math teacher, said.

Walking in the event introduces members in Best Buddies to other students from diffrent schools in Lake County they may not have met. New friendships created fulfill the aspiration of the Best Buddies club, according to Mr. Barton.

“It’s for the students who are ignored and helps keep that from happening more,” Mr. Barton said.

One of the main goals of the Best Buddies walk, besides building friendships, include making the idea of equality more frequent in daily life, whether that be in school or in public with others. With people that have disabilities, the idea of equality remains tough, so the walk supports the message of equal treatment, according to Mr. Barton.

“The walk will show not only our

schools, but our communities about Best Buddies and how they should be more open to others with disabilities,” President Priya Shah, senior, said.

The friendship walk will make all of the buddies feel included and connected with everyone else participating in the walk, according to Priya.

“It (the walk) is almost the payoff of the entire year of Best Buddies,” Walk Coordinator Conor Taylor, junior, said.

The members of Best Buddies will benefit a great deal from this event in the way that celebrates what they accomplished that past year and what the club stands for. The Best Buddies walk will end all of the fun happenings that the Best Buddies partook in during the year, according to Conor.

The walk not only raises awareness for Best Buddies, but also raises money for Best Buddies Indiana. The group promotes having the Best Buddy program in schools across the entire state of Indiana and what the club accomplishes.

“Anyone who can come out and walk is welcome, “Mr. Barton said. “Even if you can’t walk, there are ways you can be a part of the event.”

As Mr. Barton explained, anyone who wishes to come and support the Best Buddies club may participate, no matter the age. Without attending the event, people may participate in a variety of ways. Donations to Best Walk for life Buddies Indiana or just inBest Buddies friendship forming individuals make a difference for the event walk has participants turn out and the amount of across several states money produced.

If students would like to 24,000 people have participated since 2009 register, they should talk to a current Best Buddies 24 states have participated member or Mr. Barton or in this event look at their official website. Just a few extra dollars Has raised over 2 million for Best Buddies Indiana dollars for Best Buddies makes a difference for all of source: www.bestbuddies.org the students with different disabilities and the various Best Buddies clubs in the area.

The friendship walk continues to inspire and have a deep meaning to all of the Buddies in Best Buddies to show that they are not alone, according to Priya.

“The walk is great to show individuals with disabilities that they really do have respect from others,” Priya said.

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INFOCUS Crier / April 25, 2014

FULFILLING THE

POSITION

Mrs. Carla VanDerNoord adjusts to replacing Mrs. Heather Paprstein as school nurse April 3

things that make children ill.

“Most of the things that come through the door are your basic illnessTrying to help contain a stomach es,” Mrs. VanDerNoord said.

She learned to care for stomachvirus as it rushes through the school, Mrs. Carla VanDerNoord, school aches, headaches and common colds nurse, can already feel the pressure of from caring for her children at home.

Mrs. VanDerNoord also appreciates the job as students come and go out of the sense of kindness and helpfulness her office.

Mrs. VanDerNoord started her job towards others.

“I’ve always been a caregiver,” Mrs. as the new nurse April 3, filling in for former school nurse, Mrs. Heather Pa- VanDerNoord said. “It makes me feel good to help others.” prstein.

While Mrs. VanDerNoord feels confiJohn Knight, sophomore, born with Type 1 Diabetes, visits the nurse twice dent in herself as the new school nurse, Mrs. Joanne Kovacich, a day to check his assistant school nurse, blood sugar lev- Saved by the nurse also feels the same els. He finds that School nurses in Indiana Mrs. VanDerNoord served many students in 2013 confidence in Mrs. VanDerNoord, but fulfills the former 2013 knows that new posiposition of Mrs. Pa- Students tions require adjustprstein well.

125 or fewer 2% ment time.

“There’s no big 126-250 5% “With any new job difference (between 251-500 21% you have to get used Mrs. Paprstein 21% to policies,” Mrs. Koand Mrs. VanDer- 501-750 15% vacich said. “Every Noord),” John said. 751-1000 day there’s some“She’s doing a really 1001-2000 21% thing new that comes good job right now.”

2001-3000 2% up.”

At Indiana Uni3001-4000 5% However, Mrs. versity Northwest, source: inasn.org VanDerNoord has reMrs. VanDerNoord ceived guidance and trained as a surgical technician, but always knew she want- help from others. At Lake Central High ed to go back to school in hopes of be- School, she worked temporarily as the main nurse alongside the other nurses coming a school nursing.

“I love working with this age group,” there.

“It was a great experience,” Mrs. Mrs. VanDerNoord said. “You’ll never know what will come out of their VanDerNoord said. “It helped me to become a better nurse.” mouths.”

Mrs. Paprstein, who earned a MasMrs. VanDerNoord went back to school and received her Associates de- ter’s degree in nursing and worked as gree in nursing from ITT Technical In- the high school nurse for a little over stitute in Merrillville, Ind., graduating two and a half years, helped to guide Mrs. VanDerNoord into the job. in September of 2013.

“My visits have helped her learn Not only is she a registered nurse to the state of Indiana, but at home to her more about the capabilities of our elecchildren as well. Mrs. VanDerNoord’s tronic medical record (EMR) system,” three children at home give her the Mrs. Paprstein said. “I also helped opportunity to learn about the typical her learn what needs to be done daiMariah Villaroman Beat Reporter

photo by Casey Gouwens

MEANS OF ADAPTION In a average day, Mrs. Caral VanDerNoord treats around 50-60 students.

The large amount of students coming in can become challenging; however, Mrs. VanDerHood finds that having good time management skills helps her get the kids back to class in a timely fashion. Adjusting to the computer system also caused a challenge,but time and assistance from others allowed her to overcome the arrangements. “I wouldn’t say it’s been difficult or hard, and everyone has been so helpful,” Mrs. VanDerNoord said.

ly, monthly and yearly as part of the school nurse’s responsibilities.”

Mrs. Paprstein thinks that Mrs. VanDerNoord holds the positive qualities of a school nurse and expects her to do a good job.

“I am definitely expecting her to be a great school nurse. I think the students will think she is fair and reasonable,” Mrs. Paprstein said. “She has a passion for nursing and a desire to help young adults learn more about how to take care of their health. “

Ghezzi Masonry

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For right now, Mrs. VanDerNoord seems able to handle the job as the nurse, according to those closely associated with her. Though nervous, she feels excited to have this opportunity as the School’s new nurse.

“I’ve always wanted to be a school nurse; that’s why I went to nursing school, that’s why I’m a registered nurse,” Mrs. VanDerNoord said.

“That’s why I’m in this position. I get to work with teenagers, and it works great with my family.”

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INFOCUS Crier / April 25, 2014

LAYING the DOWN

7

LAW

Although students still have rights during school, administration can limit certain aspects of them stupid and I couldn’t say anything to them,” Maddie said. “Even though it hurt, I was okay with it because the “Have the self-control. Keep your purpose is to understand how bullycool,” she said. ing victims feel and it worked.”

She chose to stay silent April 11 for Although Maddie and Domeneque the whole day. choose to stay silent for Domeneque Geron, ju- From the courts the day, they do not have nior, participated in Day any rights to. For examof Silence. The Day of Si- Schools can limit ple, when a teacher asks lence started at Universi- students’ freedom them to answer a questy of Virginia in 1966 to of speech due to tion, their staying silent protest bullying and the these court cases would disrupt the learnbullying of the LGBTQ ing environment. Mad(lesbian, gay, bisexual, Tinker v Des Moines die believes that one day transgender and ques- John Tinker, Mary Beth Tinker of silence would not afand Christopher Eckhardt tioning) community. fect their learning.

“I choose to do it be- wore black arm bands to “They shouldn’t force their Iowa public schools to cause of what it stands you to participate beprotest the Vietnam conflict. for and the rest of the Students were suspended, and cause it’s not going to community,” Domene- the students sued the school. change your grade and que said. affect how much you The court case made it to the Domeneque has wit- Supreme Court, which ruled in participate on other nessed people in her life favor of Tinker. They held that days,” Maddie said. negatively effected by a student can be expected to shed their rights at the school bullying.

On Wednesday, April “Us as students, we house gate as long as it did not 2, more than 200 Lake interfere with the mission of the need to watch what we Central students gathered school. say to people because we around each other to do affect them more than hold a moment of silence Hazelwood v Kuhlmeir we think,” Domeneque Principal ordered the removal for one of their own who said. committed suicide. of a story on teen pregnancy Staying silent raises and divorce. The students sued The students refused awareness of a cause. Do- due to the fact that they felt to go back to class when meneque and other par- that the principal violated their the administrators told ticipants feel the same rights to the first amendment. them to. The adminisemotions as people who The federal court ruled in favor tration response would of the school district. It held experience bullying do. mirror the same if this that the student journalists are “It means a lot to me happened here, accordnot in the same environment as because I’ve had friends the adult journalist. In addition ing to Mr. Morgan Nowho have committed sui- the school can only edit the lan, assistant principal. cide because of bully- paper if the content hold no “The State does not ing,” Domeneque said. “I educational purpose. recommend doing a medo it for them.” morial or a moment of Maddie Sharmat supsilence,” Mr. Nolan said. ports the LGBTQ community through “The service is in some way endorsing the Day of Silence. As member of the or glorifying that suicide can help take LGBTQ, she feels that students should out problems.” have awareness on the matter because If students want to form a protest or bullying still occurs, although not here. hold a moment of silence for a cause, “A lot of people told me that I was the necessary procedure would require William Hatczel Sports Editor

Vrusha Patel Business Manager

photo illustration by Cesar Camacho

them to have approval from administration. Having the conversation with administration may help prevent any of the problems that occurred at Lake Central, according to Mr. Nolan.

“The administration will always listen,” Mr. Nolan said. “We may not agree or you may not agree with us, but we can at least communicate.”

In addition, Students participating in the student section feel limited when showing support. Mr. Nolan believes that the rules set into place keep a positive element at athletic events.

“Students should not be heckling the other team,” Mr. Nolan said. “There is

not a place for that in sports. As a former high school and college player, I do not appreciate it when fans try to be a part of the game.”

The restrictions, such as the no costumes or noisemakers, prevent students from interfering with the game.

“Out there you are exposed to communities, other communities, and the media,” Mr. Nolan said. “Since it is a public forum, you are out there exposing the school. We have a great reputation for academics, but we do not want to have a bad reputation in sports because we have fans who are not nice and rude.”

At first glance In addition to speech, the first amendment guarantees four other rights, although the school can restrict aspects of these rights while on school grounds

FREEDOM OF RELIGION

FREEDOM OF THE PRESS

FREEDOM TO ASSEMBLE

FREEDOM TO PETITION

Students do not have to participate in the Pledge of Allegiance due to a reference of God. Students can wear head coverings in school; however, they cannot wear hats . Such as, in cases of a person practicing Islam, they may wear a hijab.

All students must be vaccinated for all public schools, regardless if their religion is against vaccination.

The student press does not possess the same rights as other journalists do.

If a student publication serves as a public forum for student expression, meaning that school officials have given students the authority to decide their own content decisions, a school can not envoke prior review.

School officials can censor public forums only when they show the publication will cause a “material and substantial disruption” of school activities.

Students can assemble on school grounds as long as it does not violate the school mission.

The students can form clubs with the approval of the school; however, the clubs cannot participate in anything that interferes with the mission of the school.

If students occupy any school building and prevent others from the use of the building or if they act in a manner with holding the educational environment they can be up for suspension or expulsion.

Students can petition as long as the petition does not interfere with the mission of the school. The school mission statements is “all will succeed”

8

PROM

PROM

Crier / April 25, 2014

Crier / April 25, 2014

9

GATSBY GALA: AN EXTRAVAGANT EVENING With the prom theme based on book “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, student’s schemed extravagant promposals, dress styles and looks, plans for after prom BEFORE PROM

With a Gatsby Gala prom theme, students find creative ways to make their promposals extravagant with help from their fellow classmates

A dream come true Students find creative ways to ask their date to prom The SHOE FITS Walking to senior Emily Anderson’s house, Marty O’Shougnessy, senior, prepares to ask Emily to prom with CJ Nunze, senior, as his butler. “I was feeling a little nervous.

I was worried I was going to mess up my lines,” Marty said. “I wrote a script a few days ago that I was going to say. I was mostly excited because I had a feeling that she really liked the idea.”

Marty O’Shaugnessy, senior Emily Anderson, senior

Ruben Escalante, senior, ask Kelsey Conroyd, sophomore, at an assembly

“I was really shocked. I was completely caught off guard. I was surprised because I could tell he put a lot of effort into it. I was just really happy.” -Emily Anderson

“I was just really excited and it did make me happy that he asked me like that.” “It’s something I can always remember.”” I wasn’t embarrassed at all. I was a little nervous, but I was just really happy.”

-Kelsey Conroyd

“The idea kind of just came to me.

Cinderella is her favorite princess, and I thought it would be cute to ask her that way. When I ask her, she started crying.

The whole thing was very emotional.”

-Marty O’Shaugnessy

PRE- PLANNING FOR PROM

“I remembered there was an assembly and I had a bunch of ways…I asked Mr. Wells and he said it was cool if we had time left so I went and wrote that rap in sixth hour.

I was nervous during the presentation but when I realized we had time I sucked it up and did what I had to do.” -Ruben Escalante Michael Rivich, junior, ask Gianna Fotopolous, junior, at a Lorde concert by hanging a banner from a balcony

Sam Toth, senior Nikki Smith, junior

Casey Gouwens, senior, models dresses from Elegance that sell the most in style designs for 2014 prom; other stores also sell these designs

“I knew she was a swimmer, and I felt like as a senior it’s my last “asking,” and I wanted to go out in a big way, and I wanted to wear a speedo because it’s funny.” -Sam Toth “At first, I was really surprised. I was on my way to practice. I didn’t expect it, but he is my boyfriend so of course I said yes.”

-Nikki Smith photo by Pam Muangmingsuk

“I was just really surprised. I had no idea he was going to do it there. It was during Lorde’s first song. He tapped my shoulder and told me to turn around. I totally wasn’t expecting him so I just hugged him and said yes.” -Gianna Fotopolous

photos by Pam Muangmingsuk

ALL IN GOOD HUMOR With the help of Joe Gardner, junior, Sam Toth, senior, prepares to ask Nikki Smith, junior, to prom by having Joe write the words “prom” on his leg with a red marker. “I love the way I did it,” Sam said. “I thought she was going to react one or two ways. She was either going to act really surprise or not know what to do. She didn’t know what to do.”

“I just thought of it. My sister and her friend were there too, so I asked them to hold it up from the balcony.” -Michael Rivich

AFTER PROM FLAIR

CUT-OUTS

Jovani has a variety of dress styles which would cater to any sense of style. He designs for a range of occasions from Homecoming dresses to the extravagant wedding dresses.

Figure flattering dresses such as these appear in Tony Bawls collection.

His collections are filled with the latest colors in season such as metallics and pastels. His business caters to pageantry and prom events.

Students have a variety of options to choose from when deciding the most extravagant places to eat, stay and visit PLACES TO STAY

PLACES TO VISIT

PLACES TO EAT

After a long night of dancing with friends, Students can check in at the top hotels

Students should visit the best places to go to in Chicago after prom such as Navy Pier and Skydeck Chicago

Students can visit the top restaurants in Chicago the day after prom

The Drake Hotel

Navy Pier

Sixteen

140 E Walton Pl, Chicago, IL 60611

Price: $189 Rated: 5 stars

600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

Price: Free, but prices range depending on attraction rides Navy Pier Ferris Wheel Signature Ride: $7 Wave Swinger Standard Ride: $6 Miniature Golf Standard Ride: $6 Light Tower Ride Standard Ride: $6

The Park Hyatt Chicago Hotel 800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

HIGH-LOW Sherri Hill has the highlow dress in her 2014 Spring Prom Collection.

Her company sells dresses in 30 countries and over 300 stores carry her gowns. Her designs signify the current young women looking for elegant yet modern style in their dresses.

Price: $325 Rated: 5 stars

The Peninsula Chicago Hotel 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611 The most suitable venue for a post-prom location would be the Chocolate Bar (it is a chocolate buffet) that is held Friday and Saturday evenings. Contact Amanda Ashtari at the email provided: AmandaASHTARI@peninsula. com. Arrangements would need to be made in advance.

401 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Price: $50 and over

Alinea 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614

Price: Varies between $210 and $ 265 for Tasting menu

Next 953 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

Price: $319 Rated: 5 stars

Skydeck Chicago 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Price: $19.00

Price: Varies by time and day of the week

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

2024 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614

Price: $30 and under

10

LIFESTYLES Crier /April 25, 2014

SONGS OF THE SUMMER With summer concert season nearing, artists of various genres released summer tour schedules; Crier lists top alternative, pop, country and hip hop artists to see in concerts, at festivals this summer

ALTERNATIVE CONCERTS VAMPIRE WEEKEND

UIC Pavilion June 5, 7:30 p.m.

Sold out

FALL OUT BOY with PARAMORE

First Midwest Bank Amphitheater July 11, 7 p.m. $26.00 to $71.00

HAIM

The Riviera Theatre May 17, 8 p.m.

Sold out

FESTIVALS LOLLAPALOOZA Grant Park August 1 Arctic Monkeys Phantogram

August 2 Foster the People Fitz and the Tantrums

August 3 Cage the Elephant Young the Giant Single day: $100 Three days: $250

POP CONCERTS BRUNO MARS

First Midwest Bank Amphitheater June 20, 8 p.m. $46.00 to $150.50

LADY GAGA United Center July 11, 7:30 p.m.

Sold out

ONE DIRECTION

Soldier Field August 29,30, 7 p.m.

Sold out

FESTIVALS SUMMER BASH Toyota Park June 14, 5 p.m.

Little Mix Icona Pop Hot Chelle Rae $39.30 to $140.45

FANTABULOSO Rosemont Theatre May 15, 7 p.m.

Austin Mahone Rixton Timeflies $52.30 to $88.70

COUNTRY CONCERTS

FESTIVALS

LUKE BRYAN

COUNTRY MEGATICKET

Soldier Field August 31, 6 p.m. $57.22 to $102.22

TIM MCGRAW First Midwest Bank Amphitheater June 27, 7 p.m. $28.75 to $85.00

RASCAL FLATTS First Midwest Bank Amphitheater June 14, 7:30 p.m. $31.00 to $91.65

First Midwest Bank Amphitheater Ticket to each of the following: Brad Paisley Rascal Flatts Tim McGraw Toby Keith Jason Aldean Miranda Lambert

$149.00 to $749.00

HIP HOP CONCERTS

FESTIVALS

HOODIE ALLEN

PITCHFORK

Reggie’s Rock Club May 20, 7 p.m.

Sold out

YG

The Metro May 7, 8 p.m. $22.00 photo courtesy of Jack Edinger

INSTRUMENTAL ROLE Danielle Haim, guitarist and drummer of all female band HAIM, played at the 2013 Lollapalooza music festival in Grant Park, Chicago. HAIM, a band including sisters Danielle, Este and Alana Haim went on to win the award for Best International Band at the 2014 New Musical Express (NME) awards. The band will play at Riviera Theatre in Chicago May 17.

WIZ KHALIFA

First Midwest Bank Amphitheater August 5, 6 p.m. $36.50 to $88.45

Union Park July 18 Isaiah Rashad Death Grips

July 19 tUne-YaRdS Pusha T

July 20 Kendrick Lamar Schoolboy Q Single day: $60 Three days: $130

LIFESTYLES

H I G H RO L n Knor, sophomore, and y l t i a C Ga ge

nd t rou

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to o em r id

For $29 Expires in 30 days

orld he w

worry about planning everything since ACE handles the plans and such, according to Mr. Knor.

“Basically, the club puts on the trip,” Mr. Knor said. “They organize the hotel and ride to the parks. We just pay them and meet them at the hotel where they take us around to the parks.”

Traveling to other countries, such as France, also gave the family time to explore Paris and take in the culture, according to Mr. Knor.

“We made sure we had time to sightsee on our own,” Mr. Knor said. “We had time to explore cities and incorporate culture in the kids.

We would not go across a country without exploring the culture.”

Caitlyn enjoys traveling to new places along with spending time with her family.

“I enjoy being with my family in new places and environments,” Caitlyn said. “It is more than just staying at home and being on our phones.”

Gage Knor, junior, enjoys other perks of the club such as riding the roller coasters after closing time.

“Well, you have your ID, which means you already paid so you get lunch and dinner,” Gage said.

“They also give you extra ride time (ERT) when the park closes.”

Gage enjoys roller coasters because he loves the feeling he gets when riding them, along with having no fear in any type of ride.

“I have always loved them,” Gage said. “ I love the thrill of it.

Four Class Special

Contact us at: allison@yogaon45th.com rose@yogaon45th.com www.yogaon45th.com 219-218-2378

RS

el a rav r, t

F

eeling the uneasiness in her stomach, Caitlyn Knor, sophomore, rushes off the Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point, looking past the crowds of people for the nearest bathroom.

“I got the flu the night before, but I just made the height requirement.

So, I still wanted to try it,” Caitlyn said. “I went on the ride and ran right to the bathroom afterwards and threw up. That was the last ride I went on for the rest of that trip.”

Riding roller coasters serves as a family bonding experience for the Knor family, according to Caitlyn.

“It gives us something to talk about,” Caitlyn said. “When my dad hears about a new roller coaster, he can talk about it with my brother for an hour.”

Caitlyn’s father Craig introduced his family to roller coasters. Mr. Knor’s passion for roller coasters started when he was a kid.

“I used to go to Great America and Kitty Land as a kid,” Mr. Knor said. “I went to Cedar Point one year and learned about the ACE (American Coaster Enthusiasts) specials.”

Mr. Knor learned about the ACE club while at Cedar Point. Mr. Knor knew he had to join after talking to an ACE member.

“In the late 90s, I asked a person with an ACE shirt on how to join,” Mr. Knor said. “I found it (the club) online and that is where things escalated quickly once I gained more knowledge and awareness to where these parks were at.”

The ACE club schedules amusement park trips for members in the country and around the world. The family does not have to

LE

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William Hatczel Sports Editor

Kn

Crier / April 25, 2014

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ex tre me

It gives you a rush, leaving you on the edge of your seat, even though you are strapped in.”

Rides serve as the one hobby the entire family seems to enjoy together, no matter the location, according to Mr. Knor.

“This is something we all enjoy,” Mr. Knor. “It gets us out of the country and see the world.”

Gage believes that his family does what every family needs to try to do more of these days with the current technology.

“At home nowadays, people just sit at home on their phones,” Gage said. “My family, we go out and wait in line while talking to each other. We go out to be together.”

inte

r na t

rs ional roller coaste

On a roll

In their search for world’s best roller coasters, Knor family rides many of world’s tallest coasters

1.

Kingda Ka 456 feet Six Flags Great Adventure, NJ

2.

Top Thrill Dragster 420 feet Cedar Point, OH

3.

Escape From Krypton 415 feet Six Flags Magic Mountain, CA source: Caitlyn Knor, sophomore

DRIVERS EDUCATION !!

It’s too important not to go with the BEST!!

Certified Driving School

Follow us on Twitter at: @MHS Crier

@MHS Crier Sports 2008 45th Street Porte De L’eau Plaza Highland, IN 46322

12

LIFESTYLES Crier / April 25, 2014

TEACHING TO LEARN

With student teaching serving as requirement for aspiring teachers to attain certification, various sponsor teachers mentored four student teachers in different subjects throughout 2013-2014 school year

Mr. Manno Mr. Smitka Meena Kandallu Lifestyles Editor For many students, career planning starts at some point in high school. Mr. Adam Manno, social studies student teacher, however, planned his future out long ago.

After receiving the honorary title of “Student of the Week” in Kindergarten, which came with the requirement of creating a poster representing himself, Mr. Manno made it a point to laboriously search through magazines for images of teachers to place on his poster.

“I’ve always known I wanted to be a teacher,” Mr. Manno said. “I’ve always known that I wanted to help others in my job and teaching allows me to do that.”

A perspective that students can relate to serves as the main advantage Mr. Manno brings to the classroom, according to Mr. Smitka.

“The goal for all MHS students is to be successful,” Mr. Smitka said. “Here’s a college student who is about to go into his career, and I hope having him (Mr. Manno) in our class is a reminder to students of what they need to do to be successful in life.”

Mr. Manno considers student teaching more than just a teaching experience. He also considers it a learning experience.

“I’m learning from them and they’re learning from me,” Mr. Manno said. “I am a student just like

they are and we are all just essentially working toward the same goal of finishing school and being successful afterwards.”

Ms. Kikalos Mr. Marsh Victoria Avina Associate Editor After completing her student teaching term, Ms. Briana Kikalos, former health student teacher, plans to attend graduate school or apply for an open position.

“It’s been a really good experience,” Ms. Kikalos said. “You get to learn how rewarding teaching could be.”

Through student teaching with Mr. Leroy Marsh, Health teacher, Ms. Kikalos has learned how to gain students’ respect.

“Mr. Marsh has taught me a lot about what it takes to be a good teacher,” Kikalos said. “I always have to show concern towards my students. If I show students respect, I usually get it in return.”

Other than teaching her to always put the students first, Mr. Marsh evaluates Ms. Kikalos’ lessons, as well as gives her suggestions for improvement.

“I stay and I critique her,” Mr. Marsh said. “I made suggestions for her, and I help prepare lessons for her future classes.”

From helping Ms. Kikalos learn and gain experience, Mr. Marsh has grown as a teacher as well.

“She gives the student another point of view and a different teaching style,” Mr. Marsh said. “She uses different experiences from her life that gives a different perspective to her students.”

Mr. Stepnoski Mrs. Westland Victoria Avina Associate Editor Running back and forth between the middle school and high school, Mr. Steven Stepnoski, English student teacher, ends his term May 13.

“Munster high school has been my home since

January,” Mr. Stepnoski said. “I will miss interacting with the students, teachers and everyone else at Munster High School and being a part of their daily lives and them being a part of mine.”

Mrs. Westland had the opportunity to relearn teaching techniques due to Mr. Stepnoski.

“He has a different style of teaching,” Mrs. Westland said. “He’s very charismatic and energetic. He reminds me of some teaching that I forgotten about.

It helps me get out of a rut.”

Mr. Stepnoski had the chance try out one of his teaching ideas when his class discussed poetry.

“It gives me an opportunity to try out a lot of crazy ideas that I have, like the poetry slam we had here,” Mr. Stepnoski said. “I wanted them to realize the poetry-not just words on a page, but expressing out loud.”

One of Mr. Stepnoski’s students, Michael Szewka, sophomore, noticed that other students who did not like poetry also enjoyed learning the lesson.

“He has a very intimate approach to how he does teaching like for poetry,” Michael said. “He made it very personal.“ While Mr. Stepnoski hopes to teach at Munster, he will feel content with teaching at any school that allows him to teach what is important.

“I‘ve actually had a lot of good teachers, but for English, he’s the best,” Michael said. “I’m just going to miss everything about him. I actually really hope he comes back to teach. That way I can visit him every other day.”

Mrs. Baldwin

Mr. Magrou

Danie Oberman Beat Reporter With her never-ending enthusiasm and constant willingness to help, the MHS staff has nicknamed Mrs. Blandine Baldwin “Little Captain Fullcharge.”

“I wish I had 20 more subs like her,” Ms. Laurie Wisniewski, head of substitutes, said. “I find her pleasant, knowledgeable, always helpful and always willing.”

Born in France, Mrs. Baldwin moved to America with the intention of teaching at a French school. She moved to the Chicago area about three years ago for her husband’s job and started student teaching at Munster at the beginning of the semester.

While Mr. Magrou had more experience as a teacher, Mrs. Baldwin still believes the students benefited from having an extra teacher. Mrs. Baldwin attempted to bring her own style of fun to the classroom by playing music and doing fun activities with the students.

“The students, I just loved to see them loving the language,” Mrs. Baldwin said.

“When they are passionate and interested, I think that’s the best.” photos by Natalia Bilek and Casey Gouwens

STANDING OUT (top left) Gesturing during a lecture, Mr. Adam Manno, Social Studies student teacher, credits student teaching for allowing him to realize the importance of real-world experience. “They can only teach you so much in a college classroom,” Mr. Manno said. “Putting you in front of 30 kids is a very different experience.” TEACHING LESSONS (middle left) Reading instructions to the class, Mrs. Blandine Baldwin, former French student teacher, considers her student teaching experience a positive one. SUBSTANTIAL JOB (bottom left) Substitute teaching, Ms. Briana Kikalos, former Health student teacher, works on her computer while keeping an eye on the class. OPEN BOOK (right) Waiting for a response, Mr. Steven Stepnoski, English student teacher, looks expectantly to his students. “I would love to teach here at Munster High School,” Mr. Stepnoski said. “But, also I would be happy at any school where I can be myself and teach what is important.”

Sports Crier / April 25, 2014

Sporting news

BOYS’ TRACK

GIRLS ‘ TRACK

GIRLS’ TENNIS

With spring season underway, sport teams prepare for upcoming games, meets The Girls’ Tennis team starts this year’s season with a promising new roster, according to Coach Patrick Spohr.

“Everyone deserves their place,” said Coach Patrick Spohr, WWMS teacher “Tennis is all in black and white. If you show you are worth that spot, you’ll get it.”

The team now prepares for the Carmel invitational Tomorrow.

“We’ll match up pretty good,” Coach Spohr said. “We’re currently seventh in state and the Carmel invitational will prove whether we deserve that title or not.”

Girls’ Track will compete at the Penn invite tomorrow.

“The weather has been a challenge,” Megan Wimmer, freshman, said. “Conditioning from the start has been hard because we have had to have a lot of indoor practices and haven’t been able to practice outside as much as we ‘d like to.”

Wimmer believes the team can overcome this through the amount of work they have put in.

“Conditions have been rough, but we work really hard,” Wimmer said. “No matter how difficult it is, we always push ourselves.”

ON THE

RIGHT COURSE

Boys’ Golf starts new season with experienced seniors looking to advance to State for first time in school history while one senior prepares for college career William Hatczel Sports Editor Last weekend, Boys’ Golf lost in the Legends Invite at Franklin, Ind. “We played decent, but we definitely could have played better in some areas,” Adam Wories, junior, said.

“We did not play bad, but we did not play good enough for first.”

The team lost again Tuesday when they faced Highland and Lake Central. Wories believes that everyone did not play well.

“We did not play well as a team,” Wories said. “We need to play better on our short game. “We have been getting a bunch of double bogeys lately and that is not good.”

Specht looks to finish off his high school golf career strong before continuing both his career and education at Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. “I am looking to go out with a bang,” Specht said. “I missed going to State by one shot last year. It is not set-

The Boys’ track team raced against Lowell Tuesday.

“So far in our conference, we have defeated KV and Andrean, and we’re doing what we should be doing based on where we were last year,” Brian Banach, junior, said.

The team lost many seniors, mostly affecting the sprinters, according to Banach.

“It’s a much smaller team than it was last year so it’s going to be much more of a challenge, especially this year because of our conference,” Banach said.

tling well with me still; I am not satisfied.”

Specht, along with three other seniors, Roshan Tilva, Luke Wuchenich, Kyle Wilkinson look to advance to State for the first time in school history.

“State is always a goal,” Specht said. “No Munster team ever made it. Throughout my four years, that has been my motivation in the past seasons.”

With four seniors and two juniors on Varsity this year, they provide leadership not only for each other, but the younger players too, according to Specht.

“There is some nervousness when playing with seniors,” Specht said. “We are trying to help them adjust to high school golf. We want to get them experience for years to come.”

Wories, looks forward to his first full year on the varsity team. Along with qualifying for State, Wories wants to help the team go undefeated for the third season in a row.

“The key to getting there is by the way we play,” Wories said. “We need to play good. Shooting well is pretty much the key.”

Practice serves as a chance for the team to work on their shots, not only to win, but even for the chance to compete in matches. Only five varsity members can play in a match, so the five members who score the lowest will play.

This serves as a “little friendly competition” at practice, according to Wories.

“It is definitely a competition,” Wories said. “We are good sports about it though. We always want each other to have the better experience at golf.”

Specht decided to attend Bradley due to its location and size. After visiting large colleges, he knew they were not for him.

“I visited Purdue but I did not like it because it was too big for my taste,” Specht said. “I like Bradley because its not far away; it is about two to two and a half hours away.”

While playing in the Pro Golf Association (PGA) stands as a dream, Specht believes that golf may stick around in his life even after college.

“The PGA is a dream of mine but you have to play really well and join a bunch of tournaments,” Specht said. “I could see a career in golf along the business lines.” photo by Gabrielle Dore

EYE ON THE BALL After chipping the ball, Matt Specht watches closely as he waits to see where the ball lands. “It (chip shot) is just a shorter, more controlled shot,” Specht said. “If you are chipping well then your are probably going to play well.”

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SPORTS Crier / April 25, 2014

GAME CHANGER Students oversee their favorite sports in order to make money along with finding unique ways to participate on the field during the game Meena Kandallu Lifestyles Editor

photo by Pam Muangmingsuk

TAKING CHARGE Whistle in mouth, Danny Zuccarelli, freshman, runs across the field while watching over a parks and recreation game last Saturday. “I really enjoy teaching them the game of soccer as well as reffing them,” Zuccarelli said. “When a kid kicks the ball, if he or she does not do it right then I will tell them how to do so. When they annoy me I tune them out sort of, or I go over and talk to them and tell them to calm down. Sometimes, I will talk to their coach and let them deal with it.”

After playing soccer since the age of three, realizing that he would no longer be able to play due to his chronic tendonitis did not prove an easy task for Josh Shalen, senior. Shalen however, has not allowed this inability to play to keep him away from the sport he loves.

Through working as a referee for various soccer clubs, including the NWISL (Northwest Indiana Soccer League), NISL (Northern Illinois Soccer League) and IWSL (Illinois Womens’ Soccer League), Shalen can still maintain his passion for soccer.

“I do do it for the money, just like any job,” Josh said, “but at the end of the day, I referee because I really love soccer, and it lets me keep up with the sport.”

Munster Parks and Recreation referee Danny Zuccarelli, freshman, started refereeing last year and cites his main reason for working as a referee as admiration for the professional referees he has witnessed in the past.

“I’ve always watched sporting events on TV,” Zuccarelli said. “The guys with the whistles just always seemed pretty awesome.”

Although refereeing takes 3-6 hours of Zuccarelli’s weekends, he does not mind the time commitment.

“It’s definitely worth it,” Zuccarelli said. “I get paid well, and I also get to teach kids the game.”

Even though Shalen agrees that working as a referee proves worth the time he puts in, he remains aware of some of the less positive aspects asso-

ciated with the job.

He remembers an incident midway through a game he was refereeing for a few years ago. An uneventful game quickly changed course when a coach stormed onto the field and started shouting at Shalen.

“When a 35 year old guy goes up to a 15 year old and starts screaming at him, it’s a lot to take in,” Shalen said, “but dealing with things like that definitely teaches you responsibility and conflict resolution skills.”

Cathy Lebryk, senior, a softball umpire for various clubs in Hammond and Griffith, remembers a similar incident at an eight and under game in which coaches of the same team started arguing over a call she made.

“I was 12 at the time, and I was pretty scared,” Lebryk said. “When I was younger, some people thought that I didn’t know what I was doing, and they didn’t trust my calls because of my age.”

Referees need to prepare themselves to deal with those situations if they should occur, according to Shalen.

“There’s always going to be that occasional crazy coach or crazy parent going out there to compete instead of play the game,” Shalen said. “As a ref, you have to be prepared for anything.”

Despite the difficulties that come with working as a referee or umpire, Lebryk enjoys having the ability to spread her passion for softball.

“My favorite part is probably giving back to the kids,” Lebryk said.

“Umpires have so much control in the game, and I love being able to see everyone’s love for the game.”

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Sports Crier / April 25, 2014

Recognition vs non-recognition

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Soccer

Number of students who attend different sporting events vary depending on sport; athletes express feelings about the amount of support they receive

Average attendance: 30 students “I love the fact that we have fans that care, especially at conference games.”

-Xavier Hofferth, junior photo by Natalia Bilek

STUDENT PRIDE Cheering on the football team, Sam Toth, senior, holds a bullhorn and pool float. “I like it so much because it is a time where I can cheer for my friends who play, and it is a great way for all of the students to come together,” Toth said. “My favorite thing to do would probably be trying to distract the other team by yelling funny sayings.”

Basketball

EXTRA SUPPORT Average attendance: 150 students “It was always more fun playing in front of a big student section. The fans gave us a boost with their energy and it just made everything more exciting.”

Football

-Pat McCarthy, senior

Average attendance: 150 students “It (fan support) is awesome because it motivated the whole team.”

-Joe Jumonville, senior

Baseball Average attendance 10-15 students “People do not come that often, but it really does not bother me because it is understandable since there are so many games.”

- Jonathan Azar, senior

Softball Average attendance 10-15 students “It is nice to see them come out to support our games even though we do not always have that many people there.”

- Cathy Lebryk, senior

Tennis Average attendance 30 students “Not a lot of people come, but I really do not mind.”

- Nikki Heiniger, junior

Source: Brian Clark, athletic director

photos by Gabrielle Dore

Students flood into student sections at sporting events in order to cheer on their fellow classmates; athletes enjoy the excitement coming from the sidelines while playing a game Not to be cocky, but we are pretty good, and for football, it’s one of America’s most loved sports,” Eiland said.

As she ran across the field during Sectionals against Like Carlos, Eiland felt that the student section Lake Central (LC), Itxel Carlos, senior, tried to keep motivated him to play better during the games. the other team from scoring another goal while trying He loves how the student section stayed dedicated to play both offense and defense. Although the team in going to the games even if they were not home started falling in a downward spiral, hearing the games, according to Eiland. sounds of senior Eric Swingler’s, voice helped Carlos “The student section was amazing. People came to push for the win. to almost every game no matter where it was. It was “Probably one of the best things about the student always loud,” Eiland said. “It made me want to make section this year was hearing Eric Swingler’s remarks them proud and make them happy. So, it improved on the side of the field towards the other team,” Carlos my performance for sure.” said. “It was a Sectional game—our last game,” Other than watching his classmates cheer from the Carlos said. “We played LC and I can just remember bleachers, Eiland enjoys cheering for other teams as his voice. I remember hearing his voice, and he was well. just yelling at the other girls. It was hilarious. He “I love seeing my classmates and friends compete kind of did it to be funny, so he wasn’t really actually against other schools,” Eiland said. “It’s very fun to being mean. He was just see them do well. “ trying to get into their Similar to the student head so that they would The student section was amazing. People came to section with soccer, lose focus.” almost every game no matter where it was. It was always baseball also receives Girls’ Varsity Soccer loud. It made me want to make them proud and make less support compared ended up losing to basketball and them happy, so it improved my performance for sure.”

Sectionals that night; football, according to -Austin Eiland, junior however, Swingler’s Jacob Alf, senior. cheers, along with the “I think that baseball other students’ cheers eased their upset feelings. is harder to get into. It’s a lot more to follow, like it’s “It definitely cheered us up when we were losing,” not as easy as basketball or football because there Carlos said. “It got our spirits up to hear him and to are a lot more factors that go into it,” Alf said. “Not know that we have a student section.” many people understand all our positions and what Though the students came out to support them, specific players have to do.” they mostly showed up during the postseason, While the team commonly sees less students attend leaving the girls with little support during the actual their games than other sport teams, Alf notes that season, according to Carlos. more students have cheered for them this year.

“For the postseason, we would actually have a lot “It’s a lot less, but there still are a good amount of of people go than the actual season, and it definitely students that come,” Alf said. “It’s been better than did pump us up,” Carlos said. “It helped us know previous years. The kids that come out care.” that people actually cared and support us.”

Eiland believes that although the baseball team While Carlos felt that more students came out to does not receive much support from their classmates, cheer for them this year, she notes that the student they still manage to do well. section does not compare with sports such as football “I think they will do a little better, but they are a and basketball. very good team,” Eiland. “The baseball team is very “Soccer is actually a very boring sport to watch good this year. They have a lot of talent, so it’s really compared to football or basketball because of the fun watching them this year.” popularity for each sport,” Carlos said.

Like Carlos and Eiland mentioned, Alf believes Austin Eiland, junior, agrees that students tend to that the student section plays a large role when it show up to more games for football and basketball comes to winning the game or not. rather than baseball and soccer.

“We’re a lot better this year than last year,” Alf “I think more people go to football and basketball said.“It makes us perform a lot better. It puts pressure games because the basketball team is pretty good. on us and makes us perform at our highest.”

Victoria Avina Associate Editor

“

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SPORTS Crier / April 25, 2014

FEARLESS ON THE FIELD Varsity Baseball defeats rival Lake Central; players feel confident in facing any opponent Max Baker News Editor

The baseball team currently holds a 10-2 record in the regular season and a 2-1 conference record. The team has played against several baseball rivals, including Lake Central (LC).

“It was an impressive win,” Coach Robert Shinkan, math teacher, said.

“LC has beaten us in the regular season, and defeating them was a nice way to start off the season, as one of the top teams in the area. They’ve put in a lot of extra time and training.”

Starting the season off well so far, the baseball team credits their overall record and performance to team chemistry, according to Alex Coccia, senior.

“It’s been a pretty good season so far,” Coccia said. “We’ve spent a lot of time together practicing during the off season, and everyone contributes to the team. We all believe in each other and their abilities.”

The extensive training the baseball team puts all of their players through helps them perform better and stay on task, according to Michael Szumlas, junior.

“It takes a lot out of you,” Szumlas

Battle of the genders Comparing season hitting stats from both baseball, softball players Alex Del Rio, senior Batting average Home Runs RBIs Runs

.515 3 15 14

Joey Bryant, junior Batting average Home Runs RBIs Runs

.435 2 8 10

Source: Coach Robert Shinkan, math teacher

Katie Gloff, junior Batting average Home Runs RBIs Runs

.448 0 5 6

Paige Kwasigroch, sophomore Batting average .393 Home Runs RBIs Runs

0 7 3

Source: Coach Beth Thornburg, math teacher

photo by Pam Muangmingsuk

KING OF THE MOUND Going through the pitching motion, Grant Rademacher, junior, prepares to throw a curveball while holding the ball

said. “But, we have incredible talent on the team, and we’re all pretty athletic.”

While baseball continues to put a physical and emotional strain on the players, Coccia claims that mental preparation plays an important role in the sport.

“In baseball, you have to learn to let things go and forget about the past,” Coccia said. “If you don’t, then you don’t do well on the field. The lack of focus translates into the game, and it pulls everyone down. It’s selfish in my opinion.”

correctly. “I put two fingers on the seam and snap my wrist in a turning motion to make it curve.” Rademacher said.

While baseball continues to put several different strains on the baseball players, Szumlas claims he would not trade any of it for the world.

“I love the game,” Szumlas said.

“It’s something I love to do and I don’t know what I would do without it. The people on the team are like my family.”

Despite the team’s drive and ambition to succeed and win the rest of their regular season games, Coach Shinkan expresses the anxiety he has about each game.

“I’m not nervous about the season,”

Coach Shinkan said. “We’ve got a great group of guys so I’m sure we’ll go pretty far. I’m just anxious to play.”

While anxiety can impact a players morale, Szumlas tries his best to not let his fears or his anxiety bother him while watching his teammates during his games.

“You have to be relaxed and confident when you’re on the field,” Szumlas said. “If you let anxiety and fear in your head, then you’ve doomed yourself and your entire team. When that happens, you’ve already lost before you’ve taken your first swing at the

Sacrifices for the greater good Varsity Softball players prepare to miss prom in order to play in invite Saturday; look to work on their bond in order to improve team chemistry Vrusha Patel Business Manager Taylor Kotzo, junior, will attend the Griffith prom rather than the Munster prom due to the fact that the softball team will have an invite to attend today and tomorrow.

Although the competition date did not stand as the sole determining factor, it did help her decide to attend prom at Griffith.

“I think we will struggle a little bit because most of the varsity will be gone, but I think we will play some good games,” Kotzo said.

Taking last year into consideration, Kotzo felt that the team will not suffer a huge loss, when the JV team played at the Varsity level. However, Kotzo does not know what of strengths or weakness of the junior varsity team, which could stand as a problem.

“We definitely have the talent, and we are evenly matched when playing against the top ranked schools,” Kotzo said.

However, the team needs to bond so that they can build team chemistry on the field, according to Kaitlynn Gloff, junior.

“We need to focus more on softball then other things like Prom and other school activities,” Gloff said.

Even though Gloff will commute back to Munster tonight after a game, she hopes that the JV team can step up their game.

“We just expect them to hold their own and still compete to the best of their abilities at a varsity level,” Gloff said.

The team hit a rough patch in the beginning of this season because they had a lower record than they expected with the level of talent they possess. Murphy attributes these losses to a lack of focus; however, she does not see this problem anymore.

“Repetition is probably our got to way of improvement. We work on our skills daily until they become somewhat second nature,” Murphy said.

Murphy works individually to improve her skills. photo by Natalia Bilek She makes sure that she practices or performs a GROUND SHOT Preparing to catch a ground softball related activity all ball, Madelynn Moore, sophomore, gets into seven days of the week. her fielding stance. “Practicing is important “We work very hard day because being able to field a ball is one of the in and day out whether it most important aspects of the game,” Moore be at practice or in a game said. to improve ourselves,” Murphy said. “We are a very talented team and we will do our best to utilize all of our strengths.”