GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Championships, Prom Prep, and Student Spotlights at Crown Point High School

What’s recently happened?

Recently, the Crown Point High School (CPHS) Girls Swim team made school history once again by winning the sectional championship for the fourth year in a row. This accomplishment reflects months of dedication, training, and teamwork throughout both the season and the offseason.

Sophomore Sophia Snyder shared how rewarding the victory felt after all the effort that the team has put in.

“It felt amazing to be able to see all of our hard work pay off in the offseason and for us to be able to end up winning sectionals for the fourth year in a row,” Snyder said. “It was just an incredible experience to be able to win with all of my friends.”

The Girls Swim team’s continued success highlights the strength of their program and the close bond between teammates. Their achievement adds another proud moment to CPHS athletics and sets a high standard for future seasons.

What’s coming up?

CPHS students are preparing for one of the most anticipated events of the year: prom. This year’s prom will take place on April 18 at the Halls of St. George, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and dinner beginning at 7 p.m. The theme, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” promises an elegant and whimsical night for juniors and seniors.

Along with the excitement of the event itself, many seniors are also looking forward to the traditions that come with prom, including prom court. 

Senior Keewa Yu, who is running for prom queen, shared her perspective on being part of this experience.

“I wanted to run for prom queen because I wanted to have some fun as my high school year comes to an end,” Yu said.

For Yu, being nominated is about more than just the title; it represents a meaningful moment during her final year of high school.

“I hope being a nominee will become a great memory to look back on when I am older,” Yu said.

As prom approaches, students are getting ready for a night filled with memories, celebration, and tradition. With a unique theme and an exciting venue, this year’s prom is shaping up to be a memorable sendoff for CPHS upperclassmen.

Staff spotlight:

Jamie Ortiz teaches a variety of art courses at CPHS, including jewelry, sculpture, Intro to 3D, and AP Art History. While she enjoys working across different mediums, AP Art History stands out as the class that requires the most from her as an educator.

“It’s world history, so there’s always something new that pops up every year that I didn’t know the previous year,” Ortiz said.

Ortiz’s passion for art began early and has shaped her career path.

“I’ve always loved art since I was a little girl, so why not do what you love every day and spread your love and share it?” Ortiz said.

One of her favorite aspects of teaching at the high school level is the ability to connect more deeply with her students. She values the maturity her students bring to the classroom and the opportunity to collaborate with them creatively.

“With teens, we can hang out, talk about art, and make all sorts of different things,” Ortiz said.

Her love for art extends beyond the classroom, rooted in its ever-changing nature.

“I like that it’s always changing. It’s never the same because the world is changing,” Ortiz said.

Looking ahead, Ortiz hopes her students not only succeed academically but also develop a lasting appreciation for art.

“For AP Art History, I just hope everybody gets a three or higher on the test,” Ortiz said. “I hope that they look at their own art inspired by what they’ve learned and come back to it in the future.”

Overall, Ortiz’s enthusiasm for art and dedication to her students creates an engaging and inspiring classroom environment. By encouraging creativity and curiosity, she leaves a lasting impact that extends far beyond the school year.

Student spotlight:

Senior Brian Clark plans to pursue a career in the Navy after graduating from CPHS, with the goal of becoming a damage controlman. Inspired by his family’s military background, Clark has been considering this path for years.

“My family is all military men, so I thought I’d follow suit,” Clark said.

Clark began to seriously consider this future during his sophomore year, when he realized a traditional college path was not the right fit for him.

“I feel like this would be a lot better for me, as I can make a career off it later on,” Clark said.

Looking ahead, Clark hopes to gain valuable certifications through his time in the Navy that will support his long-term career goals. After his service, he plans to become a firefighter.

“I plan to get licensed and credentials, so when I get out of the military, I can go on to be a firefighter,” Clark said. “I’ll already have my EMT, CPR, and all my licenses, so I can apply right away.”

Although he is still in the early stages of preparation, Clark has been working on building his physical strength and endurance for the demands of military life.

“I’ve been conditioning my body, doing workouts and things like that,” Clark said.

As he looks toward this next chapter, Clark is especially excited about the opportunities to travel and experience new places.

“I’m most excited for the places I’ll be going and the trips I’ll be taking. It’ll be nice to go out of the country and see different spots,” Clark said.

Clark’s commitment to his future and his willingness to take a path that aligns with his goals demonstrate his determination and focus. His plans reflect both preparation and ambition, setting him up for success beyond high school.