GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Riley High School: A Season of Exploration and Celebration

What’s happened recently?

Recently, students from Riley High School traveled to Chicago to explore the city’s vibrant art scene and gain a deeper appreciation for creative expression. The trip provided students with a new perspective on art and how it can be experienced in different environments.

One stop on the trip was Color Factory Chicago, an interactive exhibit where each room highlights a unique aspect of color. The installations are designed to explore how colors influence emotions and perception. The experience allowed students to reconnect with a sense of creativity and playfulness.

“I liked how each room was different and unique in its own way.” Senior Emma Ring said.

Students also visited the Museum of Illusions Chicago, which features immersive exhibits filled with optical illusions and holograms that challenge the way people see the world. Through these exhibits, students experienced how art can shift perspective.

“My favorite part was the vortex tunnel because it made you feel like you were falling and spinning even though you weren’t,” Senior Maliyah Waller said.

Another highlight of the trip was the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, where students explored exhibits focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). They participated in interactive learning labs and viewed engaging displays.

“I really enjoyed the exhibit for the costume creators of Wicked. It was cool to see the Oscar-winning costumes from the movie,” Senior Chloe Whitmer said.

Overall, the trip gave students the opportunity to see the world from new perspectives while strengthening connections with their classmates. As the experience continues to grow in popularity, many students hope it will remain a tradition in the future.

What’s coming up?

Upcoming Riley High School seniors are preparing to host their 2026 prom, which will take place on May 1 at the Century Center. Prom is a major high school milestone, offering students a chance to celebrate and create lasting memories with friends.

Over the past month, the senior class cabinet has worked to finalize important details, including the theme, centerpieces, and advertising. This year’s theme, “Enchanted Forest,” aims to create a whimsical and immersive atmosphere for attendees.

To stay organized, the class cabinet is divided into committees. One of these groups, the Centerpiece Committee, focused on designing decorations that match the theme.

“I like how we all collaborate and build on each other’s ideas to come up with the best way to create on-theme centerpieces,” Senior Savannah Myers shared.

Another group, the Advertising Committee, worked on slides, videos, and posters to promote the event and encourage student attendance.

“My favorite part about being on the Advertising Committee is creating content to get everyone excited for such a special night,” Senior Annika Retana said.

Planning a student-led event allows seniors to develop teamwork and leadership skills while taking pride in their accomplishments. As the event approaches, students look forward to a memorable night filled with celebration and community.

Staff spotlight:

Nancy Simoni is one of the many dedicated teachers at Riley High School. She teaches science and is also part of the Project Lead the Way Engineering & Magnet program. Simoni earned her bachelor of science degree from Valparaiso University and later completed a master’s degree in kinesiology.

Before becoming a teacher, Simoni worked as an athletic trainer, where she also studied sports psychology and developed a deeper understanding of the mental aspects of athletics. She previously worked at Chesterton High School as both an athletic trainer and health teacher.

“It was my goal, my dream job,” she said.

After getting married, Simoni moved to South Bend to pursue another passion of teaching science.

“There is not a day that goes by where I’m not using all of my careers,” she said.

Simoni is now in her ninth year at Riley. She currently teaches Biology, AP Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, and Environmental Sustainability. Many students appreciate her hands-on teaching style, which makes learning both engaging and memorable.

As the daughter of a scientist, Simoni has always felt a strong connection to science. She recalls winning science fairs as a child and the joy that came with those experiences. Today, she enjoys teaching because it allows her to share that passion while being her confident, outgoing self.

Simoni is well known among student-athletes not only for her teaching skills, but also for the strong connections she builds with students. She makes an effort to check in on their lives, offering both guidance and encouragement.

“My favorite part of the day is running into wonderful students and being able to watch them grow into young adults,” she said.

A unique aspect of Simoni’s classroom is her animals. She has a tank full of fish and a bearded dragon named Beaker, who often helps comfort students. These additions help create a welcoming and supportive environment where students can enjoy learning.

Riley High School has had a lasting impact on Simoni.

“Our building is big, but small enough to feel like home,” she said.

The Riley community is grateful for Simoni and the positive influence she continues to have on her students.

Student spotlight:

Abigail Wittrock is a dedicated student-athlete at Riley High School, balancing rigorous academics with an impressive list of extracurricular activities. As a senior, she has spent the past four years making a meaningful impact on the Riley community.

Wittrock is actively involved in Track and Field, Cross Country, Student Council, Class Cabinet, the Riley Athletic Ambassadors Committee, the Riley Ambassadors Magnetic Program, National Honors Society, and National Technical Society. Her commitment to being involved has shaped her high school experience.

“Knowing that getting involved would make my high school experience so much more enjoyable and worth it encouraged me to participate in as much as I could, meet new people, and show leadership,” Wittrock said.

Despite her busy schedule, Wittrock has found a balance between academics and extra-curriculars. She focuses on her schoolwork during the day, allowing her to fully commit to her sports and activities after school without added stress.

She especially enjoys her community service and athletic office aide class, where she connects with staff members and contributes to the athletics program.

“My favorite part about coming to school every day is seeing my friends and getting to connect closely with the amazing staff members here at Riley,” she said.

After graduation, Wittrock plans to attend Tiffin University, where she will continue her track career while majoring in sports management, with a focus on athletic administration.

“I would like to mention my track coach, Coach Columbus, who has taught me many lessons both on the track and in life,” Wittrock said.

Wittrock’s dedication, leadership, and positive impact have left a lasting mark on Riley High School and its athletic program. The Riley community looks forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the future.