GreatNews.Life Student Voices: A time of Wolf pride at Hammond Central

What’s recently happened?

The past month at Hammond Central High School (HCHS) has been filled with celebration, creativity, and school pride. From honoring cultural heritage to recognizing academic excellence, students and staff have come together to celebrate what makes the Wolves special.

On October 9, HCHS hosted its annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, bringing together students, families, and staff for a night of music, dance, art, and cultural appreciation. Performances and student artwork filled the evening with color and energy, showcasing the school’s diversity.

“It was amazing to see everyone celebrate together,” Junior Samantha Kennedy said. “The performances and decorations showed how much pride our school has in its diversity.”

HCHS also inducted 65 new members into the National Honor Society (NHS) on October 28, recognizing students who have excelled in leadership, scholarship, character, and service.

“I’m proud to be inducted into NHS,” Junior Dylan Koonce said. “I really want to help our school, and being in the NHS is one of the best ways to do it.”

The celebrations continued with the annual Hammond Arts and Performance Academy (HAPA) Harvest & Trunk-or-Treat on October 30. The event featured student performances, an art show, solo and ensemble acts, and a community Trunk-or-Treat for families.

To begin November, HCHS participated in the Veterans Day Parade. The school’s JROTC program and Marching Wolves represented HCHS with pride, honoring those who have served.

“It was fun shouting army cadences with the other cadets,” Junior Sherriyah Wright said. “It was also so inspiring to see a whole community of veterans and those wishing to honor them come together and show off as a whole.”

U.S. Representative Frank Mrvan also attended to show his support for local students and veterans.

“This is my third year in JROTC and my third time marching in the Veterans Day Parade,” said Cadet Jose Dominguez. “Although I didn’t get to see Sarge, I still had a great time marching for the veterans who served our country.”

What’s coming up?

HAPA is bringing a bit of magic to HCHS this November with its production of “Puffs (One Act for Young Wizards).” Performances will be held November 21-22 at 7 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m. in the HCHS Black Box Theater.

Written by Matt Cox, “Puffs” tells the story of a group of students who spend seven years at a certain school of magic, learning that not everyone is destined to save the world. Filled with humor and heart, the play offers a fun twist for anyone who has ever felt like the underdog.

“We have had a lot of fun putting this show together so far,” said Senior Cecilia Owens Korba. “I think everyone who loves ‘Harry Potter’ would enjoy this production since it gives another look at the story.”

The one-act play features a talented student cast and crew, showcasing the collaboration and creativity for which HAPA is known. “Puffs” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. More information and ticket details are available at hammondapa.com.

In athletics, the HCHS Girls Basketball team is preparing for its first game of the season. The Wolves will travel to Kankakee Valley High School for a non-conference matchup on November 4 at 7 p.m. The game marks the start of an exciting new season for the team.

“We’re ready to get the season started,” Junior Addison Childress said. “Our team has been working hard, and we can’t wait to show what we’re capable of.”

Staff spotlight:

Veronica Iturralde, one of HCHS’s new guidance counselors, is already making a meaningful impact through her compassion and dedication to students. Her counseling journey began with her desire to offer the kind of support she didn’t have as a student.

“I knew early on when I started teaching that I wanted to do more to help students,” Iturralde said. “When I was in high school, I didn’t have a very supportive counselor, and that motivated me to become one. I wanted to make sure students have someone who truly listens and helps them plan for their future.”

Originally from Chicago, Iturralde first studied psychology in college before realizing her passion for education. Her path eventually led her to HCHS through a college fair hosted by the Indiana Latino Institute.

Since joining the school, she has been impressed by the supportive atmosphere and the opportunities available to students.

“The students here are fantastic,” Iturralde said. “You can see their heart right away. The staff has been welcoming, and the building is incredible. One thing that really stood out to me was the Pathways and hands-on learning through the Area Career Center (ACC). It’s amazing what students can experience while still in high school.”

Her favorite part of counseling is watching students grow and find success.

“I love that high school students still have their whole future ahead of them,” she said. “I’ve seen students completely turn things around, and watching them graduate after all their hard work is the best feeling.”

Outside of school, Iturralde enjoys spending time outdoors.

“I love taking walks, especially at Wicker Park,” she said. “It’s such a peaceful way to relax and clear my mind.”

Faith plays an important role in her life, serving as her source of motivation and strength.

“My faith keeps me grounded,” she said. “I’ve seen so many miracles in my life, and I know I can always turn to God when I need guidance.”

As she continues her first year at HCHS, Iturralde hopes students know that support is always available.

“I want students to try their best and not give up,” she said. “If they ever need help, that’s what we’re here for. Every counselor truly cares and wants to see them succeed.”

Student spotlight:

Kendall Lewandowski, a senior at HCHS, has found her rhythm through her passion for music. As a member of the school’s rock band and a performer in the student-led group The Forgotten Calumets, Lewandowski brings energy and dedication to every performance.

“My grandparents started me out in music when I was very young,” Lewandowski said. “They’re both musicians, so I grew up surrounded by instruments and performances.”

Lewandowski began playing guitar and singing at 4 years old and later picked up the bass at 12. Her musical journey eventually led her to HCHS’s Rock Band program, where she has continued to grow as both a performer and teammate.

“The main reason I joined was my passion for music,” she said. “It gives me a way to do something I truly love and to share that love with other people who feel the same way.”

For Lewandowski, The Forgotten Calumets has become much more than just a band.

“The Forgotten Calumets is a band that really thrives on connection and communication,” she said. “We’ve been together for so long that we feel like a family. Everyone supports each other.”

Her musical influences include some of the greatest names in classic rock.

“I play all kinds of music, but I’m most drawn to classic rock,” Lewandowski said. “Artists like Ozzy Osbourne, Guns N’ Roses, and Bon Jovi inspire me the most. Their energy and emotion are what made me want to perform in the first place.”

Her favorite song to perform is “Dream On” by Aerosmith, which makes her feel completely connected to the audience.

Through her time with the band, Lewandowski has learned that growth happens when musicians learn and improve together.

“The best part about being in a band is growing together,” she said. “We’ve all improved so much, not just as musicians but as friends.”

Even with that growth, this teamwork brings challenges.

“The hardest part is keeping everyone open-minded when it comes to song choices,” she said. “We all have different tastes, so it can be tricky to make sure everyone feels heard.”

Lewandowski’s favorite memory was performing “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi on bass with former seniors, a moment she described as full-circle.

Balancing music with school takes organization and time management, but she has learned to keep everything on track.

“I plan everything out in advance and make sure my schedule has specific times and dates for practices, assignments, and performances,” she said. “It helps me stay on top of everything.”

As she looks ahead to graduation, Lewandowski plans to attend one of the colleges she has been accepted to, including Calumet College of St. Joseph, Ball State University, and Indiana State University.

“Something I really want people to know is that being in a band isn’t easy,” she said. “It takes a lot of hard work, patience, and understanding to make it work. You have to learn to communicate, compromise, and support each other if you want to grow as a band and a family.”

Lewandowski continues to inspire those around her through her talent, dedication, and love for music, leaving a lasting mark on the HCHS music community.