MHS Crier | Issue 10 | 5.17.2024

munster high school

8808 columbia ave.

munster, indiana 46321

http://mhsnews.net

senior

mhs embracing the last moments a look back on senior year

From the cheers erupting in the stands during some of the last warm Friday nights of September to the sound of heels and dress shoes clacking on the tile floors leaving our final prom in April, our senior year has already been filled with many “lasts.” With only a week left of high school, let’s reflect on the year of farewells and say hello to new beginnings.

everyday: the daily groove

last quarter: wrapping up

THAT’S A KNEE-SLAPPER After being announced class clowns at senior banquet May 10, seniors Joaquin Gutierrez and Ademayowa Adeoye shake hands. The boys tied, while senior Campbell Gideon won for the girls. See the rest of the superlatives on pages 4-5. (photo by karla aguilar) FRESH OUT OF THE BOX After opening the first box of yearbooks at the May 1 publications banquet, Vivianna Rodriguez, senior, holds up this year’s yearbook. “A book filled with my own creations for others to see is an outstanding feeling, and I’m glad I got to share it with everyone,” Vivianna said. (photo by john kullerstrand) SENIOR SLAY Holding a lightsaber, Addison Dzurovcik, senior, stabs Jovi Savaglio, junior, during the last choir concert May 9. The title was “Duel of the Fates,” which included a lightsaber battle mid-performance. (photo by vivianna rodriguez)

THE END OF AN ERA Holding a handwritten card, Nneka Oniah, senior, hugs Chyaire Love, freshman, at track senior night April 30. “I loved senior night,” Nneka said. “It was a great night to recognize all of the seniors, their accomplishments and see where everyone is headed.” (photo by zoe clark) MARCHING ALONG Turning to the side, Elliot Segvich, senior, plays his trumpet at band practice Oct. 9. (photo by zoe clark) THE FINAL RUN Sitting in the practice room at Lake Central, seniors Peyton Mueller and Ricco Garrett play through the Symphony Orchestra’s ISSMA pieces before performing them at the competition April 12. After receiving gold with distinction for their performance, Symphony Orchestra was awarded with the All Music award for the first time in 22 years. (photo by emma starkey) read more on pages 3-5

ONE LAST REP Posing for a photo, seniors Aadit Raikar and Andy Lopez pose for a picture on 80s workout day Thursday of Homecoming spirit week. This year, the morning workout returned to the football field instead of the fieldhouse. (photo by vivianna rodriguez) ACTING THEIR AGE Walking in the hallway, seniors Daniel Queroz and Ethan Walker dress as senior citizens Wednesday. (photo by zoe clark) ACCORDING TO MY CALCULATIONS Comparing calculators, seniors Brenna Harris and Hannah Loredo dress as nerds Monday. The senior class went all out to dress up for all of the spirit days, which included random costume day Tuesday. (photo by marianna young) FULL OF SPIRIT During the Homecoming parade Sept. 28, seniors Freddy Johnson and Kyle Carter look at the students watching. Although spirits were high with the return of spirit trucks during the parade, the football team lost the Homecoming game against Highland 21-20. (photo by damien salahieh)

diploma dilemma

indiana department of education proposes new diploma for 2029

stacking up

contrasting the current core 40 diploma against the proposed indiana gps diploma

current core 40 pathway proposed flex 40: indiana GPS

important changes

• less math needed

• less science needed

• less social studies needed, with a new civic literacy course

• newer course requirements for computer science and personal fiance need career specific classes or an internship (photos by john kullerstrand)

THE CURRENT REQUIREMENTS Right now, students need to fulfill these requirements to graduate with a standard core 40 diploma.

In Indiana, the future of education is changing. On March 27, the Indiana Department of Education proposed a reconstruction of the current diplomas for high schools across the state. With the two new diplomas in question, the Indiana GPS Diploma and the Indiana GPS Diploma Plus, grades 9-10 will narrow in on essential skills while grades 11-12 will have additional flexibility specific to a pathway of their choice.

The graduation from the standard diploma currently employed in Munster compared to the IDOE’s proposal stirs concern for the classes in effect. In their 11-12 grade levels, the GPS diplomas encourage students to enroll in additional courses aligned to a graduation pathway.

“Ultimately, they’re trying to transform what an upper level high school

experience looks like,” Mr. Robert Snyder, assistant principal, said. “They want students to have a type of practical internship or work-based learning experience.”

The intensification between the Indiana GPS and Indiana GPS Plus diploma is what underlines the greatest concern for Mr. Snyder. As part of the postsecondary-ready competencies, similar to the graduation requirements as part of the standard graduation pathway, the newly proposed option requires students to complete the Indiana College Core or achieve an average of 3.5 and scores 3 or higher on at least five exams, and exemplifies competency mastery by leading a club or foundation, among other qualifiers.

work ethic: 2 semesters

THE PROPOSED REQUIREMENTS The state of Indiana has proposed major changes to all high school diplomas, altering the amount of core classes needed.

flexibility of the GPS diploma that’s more comparable to a Core 40,” Mr. Snyder said. “All Of those requirements for box three of the GPS Plus are high bars for kids to achieve.”

With the proposal being an overhaul of multiple credits, certain departments such as world languages, art, and social studies are liable to major downsizing.

studying the effects

50% of the class of 2023 graduated with an Academic Honors diploma

Now, the graduating percentage in the top diploma, the GPS diploma plus, is estimated to drop to 20-30%

source: mr. robert snyder, assistant principal

“We might see more kids using the

“I think it is worrisome for teachers who have been here and have dedicated their life to the profession,”

Ms. Szafasz, social studies teacher, said.

As social studies teacher Mrs. Kathleen LaPorte’s growing concern for the curriculum’s demand for history credits is redundant in effect to the diploma, her anxiety stretches beyond her position as a teacher to as a mother. The implementation of the diploma, if passed, is sched-

recent awards

uled to begin with the class of 2029: the current seventh grade class of students.

“The seventh graders are the ones that will be the guinea pigs,” she said. “I’ve already discussed with my son about taking PCC his eighth grade year because of the crazy build-up once he’ll get over here. No parent wants their 15-year-old to hold up a job and play a sport by requirement for the curriculum.”

The fears are not just in terms of high school, though. Uncertainty towards the proposed diploma reaches into colleges, more specifically, college search competition.

“The other concern is how will this look to colleges like IU or Purdue, where a lot of our kids go,” Mrs. Szafasz said. “How will this new diploma stack up against out-of-state diplomas—are our kids held to the same standard?”

For more staff feedback, read more at mhs.news.net

next year’s agenda:

• improvements: beautify courtyard, more microwaves

• new events: winter pep rally, teacher- student lip sync, charity pickle ball, volleyball game and Munster hype crew

THE NEW SCHOOL ORDER Suited up, Luna Gutierrez, vice president, and Annie Fuller, president, pose in the publications studio. “Since the planning has been so much fun so far, I cannot wait for the next year. It will be the best year yet,” Annie said. (photo by marianna young) new president and vice president elected

“I felt this event was a huge success, we all had so much fun spending time together.” (photo by john kullerstrand)

Best Buddies is setting off the end of the school year with their upcoming firsttime Friendship Fair at Community Park on Saturday, May 25 from 5-8 p.m. The fair will be an assembly of clubs and teams, celebrating with live music to food trucks. Olivia Hughes, senior, hopes to push the club’s message to the students.

“We really wanted to showcase what our club is about, diversity and inclusivity,” she said. “Having the chance to connect with the community and share our message is so exciting.”

emily dywan, page editor

four students compete at mathcon competition

Four students competed at MathCON Nationals this past Saturday in Chicago after placing in the 99th percentile in the online preliminary test.

• Claire Han, junior, Advik Lalam, junior, Kate Huang, freshman and Morgan Yancey, senior, all competed

• Advik and Kate received honorable mention for grades eleven and nine

“Honestly, the first time I went to mathcon nationals really opened my eyes,” Claire said. I enjoyed all of it and loved the environment I was in.”

MathCON starts with an online test which was taken by honors and AP math classes at the beginning of Semester two. Each test is based on grade level starting at fifth grade and going through twelfth grade. Once the students have taken the test, if they qualify they have the option of competing in MathCON nationals.

“It shows that we have very talented students at Munster,” Mrs. Katie Harris, MathCON sponsor, said. “It’s a very complex, difficult test.”

MathCON, compared to the SAT’s straightforward questions that are separated into two 35 minute modules, according to Mrs. Harris.

“I love math,” Claire said. “I like how you can be creative with your solution but also know that there’s only one correct answer at the same time.”

deca members attend internationals

Leaving for Anaheim, California April 27, 13 members of DECA headed to the International competition. At the competition, four placed.

• Brandon Walker, sophomore, placed top 20 in Principles of Business Management.

• Seniors Pranshu Aryal, Hannah Kotvasz and Nabeel Rabie placed top ten in Start Up Business Plan.

“Being able to place top ten on one of the hardest events and out of hundreds of written entries is something I still can’t wrap my head around,” Hannah said. “After months of planning, editing and practicing our written project, it felt super rewarding to run up to the stage with my partners. I can still feel the same excitement that I felt when we were awarded our medals.”

Aside from the competition, the group got to explore the area—they went to Disneyland, Santa Monica Pier, Universal Studios and Huntington beach.

“I loved going to all of the different places while also balancing it with the hard work,” Pranshu said.

lauren hoogeveen, editor-in-chief

corrections

emily dywan & emma starkey story editor & page editor

gabriella van horne, page editor

CROWNS DONT BRING FROWNS After being crowned prom queen and king at Best Buddies prom April 25, senior Riley Galosich and sophomore Jeffery Piljac, pose for a photograph. “Best Buddies prom has always been a club favorite,” Olivia Hughes, senior and club president, said.

letter from the editor

Walking into room N155 on the first day of sophomore year, for one of the first times in my life, I was quiet. Glancing around at the seniors talking about their summers and complimenting each other’s outfits, I looked down at my freshly painted nails and waited anxiously for anoth er underclassman to walk into the room. Joining been a plan of mine since middle school, but now that I was finally there, the doubts came rushing in. I felt behind, like my freshman year was a waste of time I could never get back—memories that could’ve been made, friends that could’ve been met and classes that I could have fully experienced.

Starting our four years at MHS with such a widespread and universal sense of uncertainty seemed to completely characterize my experi-

ence as a whole. From a literal pan demic keeping our grade divided freshman year to confusingly re adjusting to “normal” life sophomore year, we had to learn how to create our own bal ance. Now on the brink of a

But I think, like how we all have learned, sometimes you just have to let go and trust yourself. Yes, I’m sure you’ve all heard this from your parents but it’s true—you know way more than you give yourself credit for. Take a moment to reflect on your freshman year self, either eating

lunch in the fieldhouse with plastic shields over your desk or your “internet crashing” mid-Blackboard Collaborate meeting, and notice how you made it to where you are is something that completely changed and refined me as not only a student, but as a person. Being able to cover your stories and highlight our accomplishments the past three years has made me a more observant person and taught me skills that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. So for my final issue as editor-in-chief, I urge you to do one (or all) of the following things as you depart MHS: give yourself a pat on the back, take the time to appreciate someone else’s hard work or success and take some pictures—make the moment last just a bit longer.

-lauren hoogeveen editor-in-chief

three of a kind

I

n June of 1999, I graduated from Munster High School: excited, enthusiastic and eager to begin the next chapter of my life, in the fall at Indiana University. Heading 209 miles away from the house I grew up in, and looking out the rear-view of my parent’s Pontiac Bonneville, was all I could think about.

What lies ahead. Independence. New people. Freedom. Adulting. And, of course, a healthy dose of fear, alongside a barrel of nerves.

What was I leaving behind?

Never for a second did I imagine that in just five short years, I would return. Buy a home in Munster. Live with my parents (ever again), let alone voluntarily. Talk about the makings of a high school nightmare. Or, that I would marry my favorite Munster Mustang, that lanky basketball player I met in Mr. Haverstock’s summer school health class.

Flash forward 25 years: never did I envision that our first-born daughter, Grace, would graduate from MHS this past December. Let alone, head to Indiana University herself, just a few short months ago. Or, that her siblings, Caroline and Evan, would be young Mustangs as well.

To the Class of 2024, expect the unexpected. Be bold. Be brave. Be creative. Make mistakes (that’s what a great pink Pearl eraser is for). Write the next chapters of your life with the lead that lifts you up, and erase what doesn’t fill your cup. Fail. Try again. Persevere. Have courage. Challenge yourself. Take risks.

remember

your roots, embrace the unknown

Get uncomfortable, so you have space to grow.

Dorothy Vaughan, esteemed black mathematician showcased in Hidden Figures, declared in the film, “Learn all we can. Make our-

selves valuable.” Never underestimate your worth. Your contributions to the workforce, the military, our society, the college or career path ahead of you, matters. The culture and life experience you bring to the table, matters. We need you: to invoke societal change, to help each other, and to evolve our world for the better.

Remember all of the teachers, staff members, family, and friends along the way who helped shape the person you are becoming. Surround yourself with people who reflect your values, who mirror your ideals, and who love and support you.

Victor Hugo, one of the great novelists I studied at IU, once wrote: “Change your opinions; keep to your principles; change your leaves; keep intact your roots.”

You never know when you may be back.

As I attempt to write this, I realize I have almost too much to say. No, not almost—I definitely do. That is all thanks to MHS and the people within it. But now is not the time to extend my gratitude to everyone who has impacted me; it is my time to thank you all, the seniors, for everything you have done. I would like to think my quick pieces of advice that follow shortly are one microscopic way I can repay you guys. I’m sure some of you are thinking to yourselves, “What does she know?” And, the truth is, I know nothing more than the next person, but I like to think I’ve been pretty observant these last four years. So, my little, probably cliché advice is as follows:

1. Get uncomfortable. It’s easy to fall into the trap of doing what you know and what you’re good at, living like you’ve learned to live. I challenge you to switch things up. I’m sure you weren’t comfortable when you had to come to school after hiding behind your laptop for months. You probably weren’t comfortable presenting in front of the class or speaking Spanish in front of random kids. I sure wasn’t comfortable when I was told to change the way I wrote my essays my entire life. But it doesn’t seem so bad now, right? Perhaps it turned into something better than you could’ve imagined. Be unpredictable, spontaneous, maybe even chaotic at times. Get uncomfortable; it’ll give you things you could have never dreamed of. 2. Nothing defines you but YOU. We leave high school with a lot of labels, whether it be extracurriculars, classes, stats, friendships, and so on. A lot of us probably defined ourselves earlier this year when applying to colleges. Just remember you are more than a 650-word Common App essay. You are more than what people or institutions can label you as. This might be my irrational fear of AI talking, but remember your uniqueness amidst this era where people seek shortcuts and generalizations. Be who you want to be, not who your parents, friends, enemies, ChatGPT, or anyone else says you are.

3. (They say good things come in threes) Lastly, reflect. Whenever you read this, whether it be the night before graduation or ten years since being a Mustang, take some time and reflect. Reflect on what you have done thus far and what you have learned; it sounds simple, but you will soon find that it takes a little bit of time. Don’t worry, it’ll be worth it. I know a lot of us want to keep pushing until we see the success we have so often dreamed of. But every once in a while, it doesn’t hurt to look back and tell yourself, “That was pretty cool.” And if you can’t tell yourself that, here I go: what you, yes you, have done is pretty cool. Pat yourself on the back and keep on going. Just remember to glance back every so often and remember this. Remember us.

Thank you for letting me be your voice this year. Now go out and use yours.

katie harris guest columnist, math teacher

kiki petrovic guest columnist, student body president

mrs. harris and her husband after their graduation

illustration by damien salahieh

senior college map

where are they going?

seniors share their plans for after high school graduation

Alabama

University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa

Cameran Reed- Nursing

Arizona

Arizona State University

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais

Eden Cook- Zoology/Pre-veterinary

The University of Chicago

Chicago

Kai Washington- Undecided

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights

Peter Barron- Business Administration

Kayla Bell- Merchandising

Evan Bognar- Biochemistry

Nadia Buerger- Marketing

Katherine Cano- Nursing

Emily Castaneda- Pre-nursing

Enzo Cece- Game Design

Adam Clark- Intelligent Systems Engineering

Nicholas Collins- Finance

Delaney Craig- Theatre and Drama

Amaya Avila- Biomedical Science

Jalyn Brannon- Digital & Integrated Communications Science

Jabez Reed- Business Sustainability

Jaelin White- Finance and Business

University of Arizona

Tempe Tuscon

Brooke Lesina- Biomedical Science

Morgan Samuel- Nursing

Florida

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers

Sarah Lenaburg- Exercise Science/Physical Therapy

Georgia

Georgia State University

Atlanta

Benjamin Kaim- Business/Economics

Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah

Juliette Dixon- Interior Design

Illinois

Aveda Institute

Chicago

Laela Hawkins- Cosmetology School

DePaul University

Chicago

Annabelle Spicer- Film/Television

Kendall College

Chicago

Cindy Cervantes Cruz- Baking and Pastry School

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago

Jaylyn Sinwelski- Human Services

Northern Illinois University

DeKalb

Shania Hudson- Nursing

Andrew Wanicki- Construction Management

Triton College

River Grove

Samuel Hays- Sports Marketing

University of Illinois

Champaign

Ademayowa Adeoye- Biology

University of Saint Francis

Joliet

Sebastian Kozy- Biology

Indiana

Ball State University Muncie

Nathan Szromba- Music

August Burian- Kineisology

Isabella Caceres- Criminal Justice/Criminology

Zoe Cockrum- Elementary Education

Miranda Fisher- Architecture

Evanthia Fotopoulos- Architecture

Matthew Gena- Business/Marketing

Kylee Marshall- Exercise Science

Madalyn Martin- Architecture

Ian Paprstein- Sports Broadcasting/Production

Butler University

Indianapolis

Eleanor Adams- Economics/Finance

Emma Kavalec- Music Education

Dorothy Lakshmanamurthy- Journalism

Holy Cross College

South Bend

Isabella Martin- Undecided

Indiana State University

Terre Haute

Savannah Velasquez- Art Education K-12

Indiana University

Bloomington

Alaina Adams- Biology

their future: mapped

Joshua Decker- Theatre and Drama

Ini-Obong Edet- Biology

Michael Fesko- Finance/Business Analytics

Brynn Gardiner- Exploratory

Edrick Harris- Computer Science

Charity Ibikunle- Marketing

Emma Jez- Speech and Hearing Sciences

Elana Lopez- Biology

Anthony Ornelas- Cinematic Arts

Ava Rozmanich- Political Science and Public Relations

Ryan Salinas- Computer Science/Air Force ROTC

Zuzu Smith- Psychology

Sedona Sweeney- Marketing

Dominic Theodoropoulos- Computer Science

Samuel Thompson- Music Composition

Mia Unzueta- Exploratory

Jasmine Wegman- Intelligent Systems Engineering

Adeline West- Speech and Hearing Sciences

Ava Zack- Biology

Emma Burk- Economics

Tara Gaither- Film

Connor Gomez- Biology

Joseph Hladek- Physics

Emma Kasper- Pre-Law

Noah Kauffman- Computer Science

Elizabeth Kish- Speech and Hearing Sciences

Thomas Nyhan- Finance

Molly Platis- Computer Science

Alexander Prots- Biology

Shana Shah- Biochemistry

Gary

Jermaine Coney- Computer Science

Saad Mohammed- Kiniesolgy

Madina Tarakey- Psychology

Rana Alshamaileh- Dental Hygiene

Reem Alshamaileh- Radiological Sciences

Clara Dumaresq- Theatre

Emylee Gomez- Business Marketing

Julianna Kisel- Psychology/Pre-Physical Therapy

Kylie Meegan- Pre Law

Olivia Perez- Computer Graphics Technology

Andy Zhang- Education

Cristian Silva- Biology

map of the U.S. showcasing where the class of 2024 seniors will be attending college next year

illustration by josephine zangrilli

Kokomo Hannah Hermansen- Biology

Purdue University

Hammond

Ethan Cosme- Undecided

Vivianna Rodriguez- Physical/Forensic Science

Solea Bryant- Undecided

Jubilee Alvarado- Bioscience

David Alvarez- Entomology

Molly Dolatowski- Radiologic Sciences

Avery Dolson- Elementary Education

Melanie Egebrecht- Undecided

Tyler Feulner- Undecided

Noah Galosich- Architecture

Isabel Gonzalez- Entrepreneurship/Hospitality & Tourism

Carson Grennan- Construction Engineering

Olivia Hughes- Psychology

Andrea Kearns- Nursing

Aiden Leverick- Psychology

Victor Lopez- Criminology/Criminal Justice

Adrian Martinez- Cybersecurity

Cynthia Ortiz- Criminal Justice

Benjamyn Riffice- Cybersecurity

Kaylea Stanczak- Finance

Eva Andric- Undecided

Junhao Yang- Cybersecurity

Carter Gates- Accounting

Lucas Katona- Business Management

Kylie Madura- Marketing

West Lafayette

Pranshu Aryal- Buisness Analytics

Caden Atkins- Kinesiology

Sarah Banaszek- Veterinary Nursing

Armani Bearden- English/Communications

Christopher Bantley- Computer Science

Michael Burzynski- Integrated Business and Engineering

Christian Calkins- Finance

Joseph Campagna- Finance

Goldie Clark- Cyber Security

Simon Clark- Finance/ROTC Cadet

Vijay Dasari- Biology

Addison Dzurovcik- Brain and Behavioral Sciences

Emma Edens- Visual Communications

Kyle Farnell- Mechanical Engineering Technology

Jaylyn Fassoth- Elementary/Special Education

Amelia Flores- History/Film

Ryan Giba- Business

Campbell Gideon- Engineering/Pre-Med Track

Tess Glombicki- Pharmacy

William Goldman- Biomed

Austin Gorny- Mechanical Engineering Technologies

David Haggerty- Horticulture/Game Design

Brenna Harris- Business

Lauren Hoogeveen- Psychology

Riley Jorge- Elementary Education

Yousaf Khokhar- Biomedical Engineering

Hannah Kotvasz- Marketing

Elisabeth Krieg- Nursing

Layla Lebron- Radiology

Emily Li- Computer Science

Leia Maduakolam- Computer Science

Shail Patel- Biological Engineering

Josephine Pirok- Retail Management

Daniel Queroz- Kinesiology

Diego Quiroga- Finance

Peyton Reynolds- Pharmacy

Chloe Reynolds- Special and Elementary Education

Cristian Salazar- Integrated Business and Engineering

Sophie Salazar- Economics

Joshua Serrano- Computer Science

Vincent Soja- Cyber Security

Isaiah Swider- Marketing

Elliot Tapia- Business

Ethan Walker- Brain and Behavioral Sciences

Chloe Weis- Engineering

IUPUI

Indianapolis

Daniel Elias-Kinesiology

Ayden Gonzales-Artificial Intelligence

Daniel Kim-Computer Engineering

Austin Martinez-Scott-Computer Science

Declan Taylor-Health

Ivy Tech

East Chicago

Christian Misdom-Information Technology

Michael Sims-Computer Science

Gabriella Rodriguez-Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Luis Serrano- Undecided

senior bests

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Terre Haute

Kaylee Franklin- Computer Science

Saint Mary’s College

South Bend

Victoria Rasala- Nursing Abigail Martin- Undecided

University of Notre Dame

South Bend

Kristiana Petrovic- Business

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso

Isaiah Brown- Civil Engineering

Nicholas Greiner- Accounting

Giselle Rivera- Psychology

Wabash College

Crawfordsville

Benjamin Torres- Physical Therapy

Iowa

University of Iowa

Iowa City

Olivia Webb- Pre-Physical Therapy

Kentucky

Thomas More University

Crestview Hills

Natalie Kindt- Graphic Design

Louisiana

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge

Frederick Johnson- Business

Massachusetts

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati

Gabriella Kajmakoski- Film and Media Studies

University of Findlay

Findlay

Tyler Blair - Business

Pennsylvania

Drexel University

Philadelphia

Eleanora Pitcher- Biomedical Engineering

Duquesne University

Pittsburgh

Gwendolyn Davies- Forensic Sciences and Law

Gannon University

Erie

Gabriella Woltman - Criminal Justice/Forensics

Rhode Island

Brown University

Providence

Simon Nirenberg - Chemical Physics

South Dakota

South Dakota State University

Brookings

Emily Siurek - Biotechnology

Texas

Rice University

Houston

Hannah Loredo - Bioscience

Lily Hestjean- Bioscience

Virginia

layla

Veer Jhaveri -Mechanical Engineering

Michigan

Spring Arbor University

Cambridge Spring Arbor

David Cundiff- Finance

Kalamazoo

Madison Lesniewski- Nursing Western Michigan University Minnesota

North Central University

Minneapolis

Sabrina Batarseh - Ministry/Pastoral Studies

Saint Cloud

Gillian Farley - Nursing Saint Cloud State University Nebraska

Lincoln

Dominic DiCarlo- Marketing University of Nebraska New Hampshire

Durham

Ian Smith- Business Finance University of New Hampshire New York

Columbia University

New York City

Ralph Brown- Neuroscience and Behavior

Ohio

Central State University

Wilberforce

William Hazel - Music Performance

Ohio State University

Columbus

Nneka Oniah - Psychology

Otterbein University

Westerville

Avery Streeter - Equine Veterinary Technology

Hampton University

Hampton

Kameryn Hubbard - Psychology

William & Mary

Williamsburg

Teodora Dimitrijevic- International Relations

Washington D.C.

American University

Washington D.C.

Aaron Brody - Political Science

Georgetown University

Washington D.C.

George Dovellos - Global Affairs/Business

Wisconsin

Marquette University

Milwaukee

Maggie Dolan - Biomedical Science

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater

Tristin Evans - Entrepreneurship

Addison Sanow - Art Education

Armed Forces

Baron Williams - Navy/ Airforce

Elizabeth Kish - Army Reserves

Gap Year

Veronica Marlowe

Madelyn Lewis

Workforce

Anahi Bailon - Nail Technition/Esthetics

Joseph Bartusiak - Electrician Local 134

Mark Hyland - Plumbing

Pedro Jimenez - Culinary Field

Luke Laviolette- Local 647

Christian Leyva - Sprinkler Fitting

Jack MacDonald - Pipefitters Local 597

Joaquin Magallanes - Plumbing/HVAC

Adam Muntean - Local 697 Electrical Union

Lauryn O’Mara - Cosmetology

Baron Williams- Electrician

Elias Orduno- Pipefitter

Other

Lorenzo Limas - Flight School

Ethan Fedrick - IBEW-NECA Technical Institute

Keira Trimolt- Nursing

Dorsa Farahani- Neurobiology

06 infocus

photos from ms. lanman’s first yearbooks

BUST A MOVE Dancing to “Single Ladies” in front of the Crier class in 2014, Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman, publications adviser, takes part in the publication’s annual Secret Santa. UP THE LADDER Taking a photo to show their progress on the 2015 yearbook ladder, the Paragon staff and Ms. Lanman pose for a goofy photo. ALL COMPLETE Smiling for a photo in front of their progress ladder in 2005, Ms. Lanman, senior and Paragon editor-in-chief at the time, Ms. Nancy Hastings, and the Paragon staff point to their completed progress ladder for the yearbook. (photos from Paragon)

a

1

notable student awards

ms. lanman leaves after 11 years at mhs

lanman’s lasting impact

lanman has

or

• IHSPA 2023 Journalist of the Year Runner-Up: Reena Alsakaji, former Crier editor-in-chief

• 1st place CSPA yearbook cover 2023: Lita Cleary and Gia Cvitkovich, former Paragon

editors IHSPA 2022 Journalist of the Year: Atarah Israel, former Crier editor-in-chief

• Quill and Scroll 1st place feature photo in 2021: Francis Hovland, former publications student

• Gallup Award winner all 10 years

consecutive Hoosier Stars for newspaper and yearbook

• Best of Show placements for Crier or Paragon at every national competition attended

• at least 5 IHSPA Rowena Harvey state-winners each year

• JEA Special Recognition Yearbook Adviser

• JEA Rising Star

• CSPA Distinguished Adviser in the National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year

During her senior year in 2005, Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman, publications adviser, spent most of her time in room N155’s publication lab as Paragon staff’s editor-in-chief. At that time, the yearbook was distributed after graduation, causing the lingering yearbook deadline to be on Ms. Lanman’s mind during her commencement ceremony. When she returned to work on the book, Ms. Lanman thought, “I could just do yearbook my whole life.” She ended up coming back in 2012 to teach and advise in the same room she was once a student in.

After 11 years work ing here, and advising 11 yearbooks and at least 10 issues of Crier each year, Ms. Lanman now pre pares for her departure from MHS. Next school year, Ms. Alexandra Sulewski, Crown Point student teacher, will be taking Ms. Lanman’s position.

“ I

down and ended up having a lot of fun that year. Her inexperience in advising was kind of nice too because we kind of learned and navigated the school year together.”

Along with Cassie, Paragon’s editor-in-chief that year, Mia Torres, found her time in publications to be valuable. Mia has now been able to work at Washington Post and Grist News, in which she feels her time with the publications program and Ms. Lanman’s teachings have greatly influenced her career path.

hope my students gained from me what I got from publications: to not be intimidated

Ms. Lanman reflects on her time and dedication toward the school and publications program.

“Before I even got the job here, my time as a publications student with Ms. Nancy Hastings (former publications adviser) shaped my ability to do things which I will carry with me beyond this job,” Ms. Lanman said. “I really want my students to carry that with them as well. This program is the ongoing process of students teaching each other and learning these lessons, such as just figuring things out.”

Ms. Lanman continued to learn, from her own students, when she started her first year advising in 2013. However, Crier editor-in-chief at that time, Cassie Eberle, was hesitant to a new adviser coming in after adjusting to several new advisers before Ms. Lanman’s arrival.

“I remember thinking, ‘oh my gosh, I don’t think I can handle a new advisor,’” Cassie said. “But when she came in and told me about her past history with publications, I slowly put my guard

“Paragon is really a crash course in publication production and this field,” Mia said. “It can really be taxing to work in this field, but I feel like Ms. Lanman was a perfect reminder of keeping it fun, but also working hard. I just remember all of us dancing in the hallways and taking dance breaks. I think that’s something Ms. Lanman has taught me and I try to hold onto in this field.”

After observing Ms. Lanman’s work as an adviser a couple classrooms down from his own, Mr. Kevin Clyne, English teacher, made an effort to be an active supporter of the publications here.

“I started going to the banquets and stopping by during Crier and Paragon’s build days because she would keep talking to me about how much students could do, and I thought that message was something that most Munster teachers do not always believe,” Mr. Clyne said. “It was amazing to see her give students the right to make whatever newspaper or yearbook they wanted.”

Throughout her time advising, Ms. Lanman and the publication staffs under her advising have been recognized both locally and nationally for their personal and collaborative achievements.

“When we go to the national conventions, its nice to see her out there and active,” Ms. Hastings said. “She’s out there doing her thing, being recognized, and is very involved. She has made her mark, and I think that makes me feel great to know that she has established who she is.”

dorothy lakshmanamurthy deadline manager

Lanman said. “All those lessons were ultimately the main things I learned throughout my time here, starting with Mrs. Hastings.” (photo by john kullerstrand)

zangrilli photographer friday, may 17, 2024

game, set, match

girls’ tennis plays in sectionals, looks forward to post-season

lauren hoogeveen editor-in-chief

Standing together after losing the first set at the Warsaw tournament April 13, Annie Fuller, junior, and Tess Glombicki, senior, discussed strategies for the next set. Ultimately deciding to just go out into the next set and play like they were just doing it for fun, they won the second set and the match as a whole.

“So simple, yet so powerful,” Fuller said. “Having that mindset kept us positive and motivated going into the next set. I’ve never felt so much pure joy and physical pain at the same time. I am more than happy, and even a little shocked, to say that we won.”

The girls’ tennis team has a record of 8-3. According to the players, the team performs well due to their tough mentality. One of the team’s favorite quotes is “all gas, no brakes,” which originated from Coach Dru Kennedy, assistant coach last year, and they feel it fully encapsulates their spirit.

“[Our strength is] our resilience as a team,” Glombicki said. “Our singles players have fought their way through tough times constantly and have yet to fail.”

With Coach Patrick Spohr returning as head coach after stepping down in 2021, the team has been focusing on footwork, strategy and overall strokes.

They also purchased a lift for the ball machine to help practice serve returns. Throughout the season, a main focus has been finding every players’ place on the team. Deciding line-ups and who is better suited for singles or doubles has been difficult, so players have been moving around and trying different spots that they never have before.

“I think that this year’s group has the best chemistry and energy of any year I’ve been on the team and I’m glad I got to be a part of it,” Elisabeth Krieg, senior, said. “I’m excited for post-season matches and I’m ready to leave my mark on MHS.”

Although the team played in Sectionals Tuesday and Wednesday night, the results of the matches were unavailable due to Crier’s printing deadline. With a 46-year Sectionals winning streak, the team felt confident going in. If they won, they will head to Regionals May 21 and hope to eventually go to Semi-State May 25.

“It’ll be over my dead body that I am the captain of the team that loses it,” Glombicki said. “We will win at all costs.”

“We have such a close shot and I definitely think we can do it, especially with all of the effort we have been putting in,” Fuller said. “You always remember your losses, and they honestly give you motivation going further to push past your limits and do better.”

RACKET STEADY, GAME READY While on the tennis court, Tess Glombicki, senior, focuses on her racket swing during the senior night game. The girls’ team faced off against Andrean. “These past four years have meant a lot and the reality of everything approaching so fast was undeniable.” Glombicki said. “But, I could never be more proud of the team.” (photo by lexi villalobos)

in the swing of things

boys’ golf wins bomber invite and stays undefeated in NCC

Currently, the team’s season record is 6-1 and are undefeated in the NCC.

softball sectionals this monday

gabby van horne page editor

With Sectionals starting up this Monday at Lake Central against East Chicago Central, softball has been keeping their game up with a Conference record of 10-2. According to Brooklyn Kuna, junior, this season, the team wants to work on what they want to be known for.

“Whether that means we’re a team who is always displaying sportsmanship—like etiquette or constantly hitting the ball hard,” Kuna said. “Also, we want our program to feel like a family and leave a positive impact on everyone who gets to be a part of it.”

Within the past year, the team lost five seniors. This season has led to a younger team, with three seniors and four freshmen.

“There are quite a few underclassmen, but it does not matter that they’re young,” Kuna said. “They’re all stud players. We’re all so close on our team, and they truly mix in well with everyone on the team.”

Along with becoming a close, well working team, softball is working on technical improvements, according to Kylie Madura, senior.

“We worked with hitting partners who have similar tactics as us, rather than hitting with whoever, to strengthen our hitting even more than before by working through habits together,” Madura said.

Winning the Bomber Invite May 4, Boys’ Golf has been consistently placing at invites and winning matches. Recently, the boys set the team record, 149, at their home course, Centennial Park Golf Course against Andrean.

Coach Bill Smitka is positive for the rest of the seaas the boys have been working on their game. “We’ve been steadily improving,” Coach Smitka said. “We played well when we set the record and I think we’ve done a good job of competing.”

With the state championship not starting until after school lets out, Smitka believes the team can hold onto their momentum. “We are competing and playing with the ability to get to state,” Coach Smitka said. “But we can’t qualify until the first week of June anyways. Hopefully with what we are doing everyday and by approaching practice as if tomorrow were the chance to qualify, we can get there.”

Jack Sudac, junior, shot a 39 with 2 birdies against KV. “When we play together as a team, we have this sense of accountability,” Sudac said. “You want to play your best so your team doesn’t suffer.”

Evan Bognar, senior, is satisfied with the team’s season so far and in the future. “Our season has been pretty successful so far,” Bognar said. “It felt really good beating Andrean since they are our conference competitors.”

Although every player has individual goals, there is one overarching focus: their mental game. “I am really focusing on thinking through every shot on the course,” Bognar said. “I don’t want to leave any opportunities out there.”

Coming to the end of the regular season, Smitka believes the team has a chance of going all the way. “If you can get a group of guys that come together and collectively want the best for everyone, then you really can have a lot of fun and be competitive.”

baseball game tonight at kankakee

gabby van horne page editor

Stepping up to bat, Bryce Gelarden, senior and captain, prepares to hit the pitch thrown to him at their game against Lake Central on May 11. A little over halfway through their season, the baseball team focuses on winning and improving their overall record of 11-11, Head Coach and WWMS social studies teacher, Michael Mikolajcyzk said.

“Our record is not an indication of how good this team can be,” Coach Mikolajcyzk said. “It seems like in a lot of our games we just needed to get that extra hit with runners in scoring base.”

With a 4-6 Conference record, the team has been working on technique improvement, such as pitching or getting runners to home base, as well as non-technique aspects of improvement.

“I would say definitely just becoming a lot closer than we have in years past,” Gelarden said. “That’s one thing that is pretty important, as well as just taking good bats, like a better approach offensively.”

As well as improving the game physically, another goal is to “most importantly, have a good time,” Gelarden said. “We want to win the Sectional championship. We won in 2021 and we want to bring that back.”

LEFTIES ADVANTAGE On the mound, pitcher, Tyler Fuller, Junior, attempts to strike out his opponent. He was the starting pitcher in the exhibition match against Valparaiso on April 27. “i like to pitch because I am in full control and nothing compares to the ambient aura of energy on the baseball field,” Fuller said. (photo by aaron alvarez)

GIMME FIVE Scoring another two runs, shown left to right, seniors Kylie Madura and Addison Dzurovcik celebrate by giving a high-five to each other. On April 30, the team played Lowell at the Crown Point Sportsplex and won 8-4 “Celebrating with my team after a good play or home run is electric and cannot be recreated,” Addison said. (photo by karla aguilar)

PAR USUAL Mid swing, Beckett Hunt, sophomore and JV player works on his form at the first hole of their practice. (photo by marianna young)

josephine

ready, set, summer!

ready, set, summer!

with summer coming up,

here is an ultimate summer guide

beach breezes and beyond: beaches to visit

Whihala Beach in Whiting is a well known spot, favored for its view and locality.

Oakwood Beach

57th Street Beach

South Shore Beach

Rainbow Beach

63rd Street Beach

Calumet

• Hammond Lakefront Beach lies against the Hammond Marina. It is a much more secluded beach with similar benefits and even a forest behind it.

• Wihala Beach costs $5 per hour or $25 daily for parking, Hammond Lakefront is $10 daily for parking.

The Indiana Dunes spans from the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk to Mt. Baldy in Michigan City. They are long, tranquil stretches of pristine nature. Visitors should remember to not take anything out of the park, and to always clean up after themselves. Entrance is $15 per person, or $25 for families, as well as a $25 parking fee; if you have a Federal Lands Pass, these can be entrance fee.

Jeorse Beach

Whihala Beach

friday, may 17,

backtalk

if you had a podcast, who would your dream guest be and why?

from cone to cup: review of local ice cream

the sweet tooth: scoops

Price: 4.5/5

$5 was reasonable here, the total was more than the other two places but it also came with more.

Taste: 4/5

The Superman flavor was nostalgic, welcoming and very enjoyable. The taste, along with the environment, brought me back to my childhood when this was one of my go-to flavors and added to the experience.

dairy belle:

soft serve

Price: 4.5/5

The price for this was around $3 for the chocolate soft serve and there were a lot of options available for sizing depending on what your price range is.

Taste: 4/5

The chocolate ice cream at Dairy Belle was extremely tasty but the texture was a drawback. It was almost too light to feel like ice cream and it threw me off.

open 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

“Uhh, I don’t know. Let’s spice things up, one of my exes.”

froyo: dreamsicle float

Price: 4/5

For $3, the amount of product received was well worth the money.

Taste: 5/5

This was the best tasting ice cream out of the three. The taste and texture of the vanilla and orange was the perfect combination for a sweet treat on a hot day.

scoring your summer: find your summer job

1. What are you packing in your beach bag?

A. Sunglasses to wear for reading in the shade

B. Sunscreen for outdoor adventures

C. A volleyball for a beach tournament

2. You’re organizing your summer playlist. What would your soundtrack mainly feature?

A. Lo-fi or jazz background tunes

B. Feel-good workout songs

C. Music to blast with the car windows down

3. Where would you rather travel to for summer vacation?

A. A historical landmark rich with history

B. A popular bustling tourist destination

C. Taking a road trip around the country

Find out what applies to you:

7-11 POINTS: You may feel more inclined working by yourself, but you want something more creatively stimulating. Here are some jobs to avoid the heat but keep a summer feel.

Online tutoring: Become a tutor through Chegg or connect with students on social media.

Online business: You can sell products through websites such as Etsy or set a booth up at a crafts show.

Upcycling items/clothing: Websites like Depop or Poshmark are ideal outlets for resale.

4. What are you doing first at a summer carnival?

A. Playing all of the games

B. Testing all of the roller coaster rides

C. Trying all the food vendors with friends

6. When you envision your ideal summer day, what do you see yourself doing?

A. Inside playing video games

B. Going on a hike and camping under the stars

C. Hosting a campfire with friends

7. If you were planning a summer party, what would you include?

5. You want to land yourself a few quick bucks. What’s your go-to chore?

A. Hold a garage sale

B. Mow my neighbors lawn

C. Babysit a neighbor’s kid

12-16 POINTS: You may lean towards the brunt of a summer job. With an adventurous and athletic spirit, these jobs are more suited for your nature.

Caddy: Stroll the fairway and get a golden tan all while gaining some extra cash. Umpire/referee: Requires an NSA certification, but can be easily achieved through summer classes.

Lawn service: A timeless classic. As easy as a knock to your neighbors door or a post on social media.

A. A movie marathon

B. An outdoor pool party

C. A picnic

Depending on your answers from each question, tally your points.

1 point for every A answer

2 points for every B answer

3 points for every C answer

17-21 POINTS: Your ability to connect with others and adept ability to assist serves as a strong suit in a summer job. With this strength, your communication skills can be utilized towards. Baby/dog sitter: Another classic. Get in contact a neighbor or promote your service through social media.

Concession: You could apply via the Munster Pool or Munster Parks and Recreation.

Camp counselor: Good with kids? Apply through Munster Parks and Recreation.

“Giancarlo Esposito and I would want to talk about his villainious characters in his shows and how he preps himself for those roles.”

“I would have Drake and Kendrick so they could have an in-person fight—verbally obviously.”

“I would like to interview the Pope and ask him about the future of the Catholic church.”

Kathleen

“I would want Justin Fields on my podcast because he is one of my favorite quarterbacks.”

“Louis Tomlinson because he is the best One Direction member and I want to know every secret from the band.”

Valeria Ceja, sophomore

“Bruno Mars because he’s been my idol since day one.”

“I don’t even know her that well, but I think Brittany Broski would be so entertaining.”

“Leonhard Euler because he’s an amazing mathematician and he’s my math crush.”

Will Arens, freshman

Patrick Sabat, junior

Sophie Salazar, senior

Nico Sanchez, junior

Emma Jez, senior

Jenna Krieg, sophomore

Mrs.

LaPorte, Social Studies Teacher

Mrs. Christine Chidichimo, Math Teacher

emma starkey page editor

emily dywan story editor

gabby van horne page editor

“Michael Jackson because his music is fire and I like his dance style.”

Milli Kankarla, freshman

Hammond Lakefront Beach

Miller Beach

Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk

Dune Acres Beverly Shores

photo by damien salahieh

photos by lexi villalobos

illustration by damien salahieh

photo by josephine zangrilli

photo by josephine zangrilli