DuneNews

Click on the links below to view the first quarter honor rolls at each school.

Liberty Intermediate School

Westchester Intermediate School

Liberty Middle School

Westchester Middle School

Northwest Indiana Online School

Chesterton High School ... Coming soon

Westchester Middle School (WMS) attended its second robotics competition in Portage on Dec. 14. Four WMS teams were among the 72 (mostly high school) teams competing, making it the largest Vex VRC Robotics Competition in the State. Despite struggles with alliance pairings, all of the teams did a fantastic job competing and saw improvement over their last competition.

WMS Robotics earned three Awards. The first was the Holiday Award given to the school who collected the most toys for the toy drive sponsored by Portage Robotics. All toys collected were given to local hospitals. A big thank you to our students and their families for their contributions!

The additional two awards were the Judges' Award and the Design Award, both awarded to Team B. The Judges' Award recognizes attributes the judges felt were deserving of special recognition.

The Design Award recognizes an organized and professional approach to the Engineering Design Process, project and time management, and team organization. Student demonstration of the Engineering Design Process is fundamental to the educational value of REC Foundation programs. The Design Award recognizes a team's ability to document and explain their Engineering Design Process via an Engineering Notebook and Team Interview.

On Saturday, January 18, the WMS Science Olympiad team placed fourth overall in the Purdue Science Olympiad Invitational in West Lafayette. Taking home medals in their individual events by placing in the top four were: Adelyn Booras (Ecology, Experimental Design, Potions and Poisons, Road Scholar, Wind Power); Ben Bryak (Reach for the Stars); Kaitlyn Calloway (Disease Detectives, Write It/Do It); Job Hennigar (Dynamic Planet, Experimental Design, Meteorology); Ben Hiestand (Experimental Design, Meteorology, Reach for the Stars, Wind Power); Lennox Murray (Disease Detectives, Road Scholar); Ryan Seaman (Dynamic Planet, Ecology, Write It/Do It); Stella Strupeck (Potions and Poisons).

Owen was nominated by the Math Department at Chesterton High School, having been successful in each math class he has taken over his high school career. Chris Hackett, department chair, shared, "Owen shows respect to everyone he interacts with, including peers, teachers, and all administrators. He has been a captain on the football team for two years, demonstrating his leadership skills. He is a part of the National Honors Society, where he helps serve and volunteer within the community. He participated in the Natural Helpers retreat in fall of 2023 in order to help better connect with his peers and lead them. He is well known by many classmates since he works on the school news, usually serving as the anchor...Owen excels in the classroom, but is also a model person outside of it."

"Rotary is pleased to present this award to Owen, who exemplifies the Rotary motto 'Service above Self,'" says Bonnie Hawksworth, director of youth services. Rotary’s Student of the Month program highlights the diversely talented youth at Chesterton High School. For more information about Chesterton-Porter Rotary and its community service and student recognition programs, please contact Bonnie Hawksworth at bonniehawksworth@atproperties.com or 219-309-7638.

All State Percussion Ensemble

Seven Chesterton Music students performed last weekend at the Indiana Music Education Association (IMEA) Conference. This is an extremely competitive process involving applications and auditions to perform with the honor bands at the IMEA conference. The Chesterton Music Department is thrilled to celebrate the seven Duneland students who participated and are now recognized as some of the top musicians in the state. Duneland students can be found in the Jr. All-State Orchestra, Jr. All-State Band, All-State Percussion Ensemble, and the IMEA Honor Band. Those students recognized for their outstanding achievements are:

Vishva Bharath (percussion, LMS) - Junior All-State Band

Lillian Hardwick (percussion, CHS) - All-State Percussion Ensemble

Kevin Landers (trumpet, LMS)- Junior All-State Band

Will Liles (alto sax, CHS) - IMEA Honor Band

Katherine Newbanks (flute, CHS) - IMEA Honor Band

Daniel Vidt (cello, WMS) - Junior All-State Orchestra

Destiny Williams-Najzer (trumpet, CHS) - IMEA Honor Band

The Junior All-State Band was directed by Dr. Shelley Jagow, director of Bands at Wright State University, and Liberty Middle School was one of only 40 schools represented.

The IMEA Honor Concert Band was directed by Dr. Jason Gardner, director of Bands at Appalachian State University, and Chesterton High School was one of only 60 high schools represented.

The All-State Percussion Ensemble was directed by Mark Ford, director of Percussion at the University of North Texas, and Chesterton High School was one of only 13 high schools represented.

The Junior All-State Orchestra was directed by Dión Morales, director of String Music Education at VanderCook College of Music, and Westchester Middle School was one of only 21 middle schools represented throughout the state.

This past Saturday, the Chesterton Show Choirs kicked off their season in Milton, WI against one of the largest lineups of competitors they will face all season.

The Drifters and The Business Band earned second Runner-Up honors, and Jolie Cleveland earned the groups Best Performer award.

The Sandpipers and The Business Band earned a spot in finals after being placed in the top six groups of the daytime round of 16. In Finals they earned 4th Runner-Up with Jeremy Schmidt earning the groups Best Performer Award.

Six Talented Singers competed in the Solo Competition and Hannah Loving earned 1st Runner-Up out of the over 32 competitors.

This Saturday the show choir program continues its season, again in Wisconsin, at the Sauk Prairie Executive Session Invitational.

Show Choir photos by Barb Von Huben

ONLINE ENROLLMENT is NOW OPEN for incoming Duneland Kindergarten students for the 2025-2026 school year. Families are asked to complete online enrollment prior to attending Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, February 27, 2025. To get started please visit: DSC Kindergarten Enrollment 2025-2026

Click on the image below to learn more...

The Duneland School Corporation Board of Trustees is accepting letters of interest for a position on the Westchester Public Library Board of Trustees. Read more about this opportunity to represent DSC on the Westchester Public Library Board.

Vacancy Announcement and Application

The Chesterton High School (CHS) Alumni Association has announced the recipients of the 2024 CHS Alumni Association Hall of Fame (HOF) award. The recipients will be recognized and presented with plaques by the CHS Alumni Association members on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025 at the CHS Boys Basketball home game against Crown Point between the first and second quarters.

The 2024 recipients are:

Carol Biel - Teacher

Carol Biel, retired teacher recipient, left an indelible mark on her students as a dedicated English teacher and influential debate coach, inspiring countless individuals to excel in literature, grammar, and critical thinking. Her passion for education and commitment to understanding her students’ unique strengths not only fostered a love for learning but also guided many towards successful careers in law, business, and academia, ultimately transforming their lives and shaping future leaders.

Dennis Jannelle - School Staff Member

Dennis Jannelle, retired staff member recipient, was a dedicated custodian at CHS for over 30 years. Dennis left a lasting impact on students and staff alike through his joyful demeanor and genuine interactions. His commitment to his work and his ability to connect with individuals of all ages helped foster a positive school environment, enriching the lives of many with his kind words and friendly smile. Even after retirement, Dennis continues to cherish these relationships, reflecting his passion for nurturing a supportive community within and beyond the school.

Jim Goetz - Administrator

Jim Goetz, administrator recipient, is retired from his role as CHS Assistant Principal and then Principal. Jim was highly respected by his nominator for fostering strong relationships with students, demonstrating exceptional commitment, excellence, and leadership that significantly benefited both the student body and the Duneland community.

Aaron Robinson - Alumnus

Aaron Robinson, CHS 1993 Alumnus recipient, exemplifies the qualities of a true community leader and role model, dedicating his time and resources to uplift those around him. His unwavering commitment to volunteerism, whether through monetary donations or hands-on support in activities like show choir, showcases his selfless nature and respect for others. A skilled problem solver, Aaron not only contributes positively in his professional life but also ensures that everyone he encounters feels valued and loved. His kind heart and passion for helping others make him not just a hero to those who know him, but also an inspiration for everyone he meets.

In keeping with our Core Values, Duneland School Corporation is committed to fostering partnerships to improve the quality of life in our community. One of our most important partnerships is with our families. As we strive to continue to build upon and strengthen our family partnerships, DSC is applying for renewal from the Indiana Department of Education as an IDOE “Family Friendly Schools” corporation. In doing so, we will continue to “focus on addressing students' academic, physical, emotional, and social needs while providing the needed resources and fostering the active involvement of their families through schools and the community.” (Indiana Department of Education Family Friendly Schools Handbook)

Please help us as we continue to support our students and community by completing the IDOE online survey.

Your ongoing support in educating the children of our community is greatly appreciated!

SURVEY LINKS AND INSTRUCTIONS:

Survey Links:

• 2025-2026 Family Friendly Survey Questions for Families

• 2025-2026 Family Friendly Survey Questions for Families-Spanish

School Name: choose your school from the drop-down list

School Corporation: 6470 Duneland School Corporation

School Liaison Name: MICHELLE PALKO

School Liaison email: mpalko@duneland.k12.in.us

School Codes for your convenience:

6928 - Bailly Elementary School

6819 - Brummitt Elementary School

6817 - Jackson Elementary School

6823 - Liberty Elementary School

6941 - Newton Yost Elementary School

6821 - Liberty Intermediate School

6927 - Westchester Intermediate School

6925 - Chesterton Senior High School

6926- Northwest Indiana Online School (Trojan Virtual Academy)

The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information.

The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities.

Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.

The Duneland Education Foundation will host their 5th annual Trivia Night on Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 5-9 p.m. at the Chesterton Moose Lodge, 602 Broadway in Chesterton.

Teams are strongly encouraged to dress up and decorate their table according to this year’s theme is The Great Outdoors. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m. and trivia will begin at 6:00 p.m. The cost is $30 per person (age 21 and over) which includes dinner. The max team size is eight (8) persons.

First place prize $500, Second place $250, and Special Prizes for Best Theme Costumes, Best Theme Table Decor, and Best Team Name.

Click on the image at right register

Click on the image below to register

The CHS Applied Arts class is excited to exhibit cubism self-portraits at their upcoming "Outside the Box" gallery show. The exhibition will feature oil pastel drawings by 21 students celebrating uniqueness and diversity through creativity. The class is taught by CHS art teacher Colin May.

The show will be hosted at The Das' Gallery (Country Inn & Suites, 2020 Laporte Ave. Valparaiso, IN) from December to February 2025 with an opening reception on Thursday, January 30 at 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Click the image below to view the schedule.

Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 7 & 8. Big Band Bash is TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria.

Friday night is the Big Band Bash Gala with countless raffles and hours of great music! Saturday night is Dance Night featuring an expanded dance floor and Swing Dance Lessons at 6:30 p.m. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble and Maroon Jazz Band.

The “Big Band Bash” offers the public a nostalgic dance reminiscent of those held during the 1930’s and 40’s. The musical selections will include melodies from the “Great American Song Book” arranged in the style of the dance tunes from the Big Band era. In addition to the well-known melodies from the Glenn Miller, Stan Kenton, Louis Prima, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Woody Herman bands, the CHS Jazz Ensemble will fill out the evening’s dance book with some familiar offerings from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

Reserved seating (tables of 6) is available on both nights. General Admission tickets are available Saturday only, and CHS, LMS, and WMS students can receive a discount. General Admission tickets will be available at the door on Saturday, but Reserved tickets must be purchased online.

Tickets are now available for purchase, at a cost of $20 for Reserved Seating, $20 for Saturday General Admission, and $15 for Saturday Student Tickets, all at https://cur8.com/projects/15971

Proceeds from the Big Band Bash will benefit the upcoming All That Jazz performance on May 10 with special guest artists Bonzo Squad!

The Duneland Exchange Club is thrilled to announce the 33rd Annual Youth Talent Showcase, an exciting event designed to spotlight the incredible talents of students in grades K-12. Whether you sing, dance, play an instrument, perform magic, or have another unique talent, this is your time to shine!

The showcase will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Chesterton High School Auditorium. Proceeds from the event will directly support the Chesterton High School Natural Helpers Club, a student organization dedicated to peer support and community service.

Audition Information:
Auditions are required for participation and will be held at Bailly Elementary School on:

• Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM
• Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Students interested in participating can apply online by visiting the Duneland Exchange Club’s website at www.dunelandexchangeclub.com. Applications can also be accessed via the QR code on event posters.

Both group and individual acts are welcome to apply. With a professional stage at Chesterton High School, this is a fantastic opportunity for young performers to showcase their skills in front of a live audience.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this incredible tradition. Apply today and join us for a night of fun, talent, and community spirit!

For more information about the Duneland Exchange Club and its programs, please contact mariabachuchin750@hotmail.com.

The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth to school initiative in Porter County. The HUB is a place for caregivers and their children to learn, play and grow together.

The HUB is learning about snow, gingerbread, Earth, space and more with our HUB families for January. If you have children ages 0-5, come join in the fun M-F at the HUB. Check out this FREE program at our DSC website.

https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/programs-services/duneland-early-learning-hub

Discover Duneland School Corporation’s Trojan Learning Center

Located within the Duneland School Corporation,

the Trojan Learning Center (TLC) offers a wealth of learning opportunities for

young children and their families. Here is what we offer:

• Duneland Early Learning HUB is a FREE Birth-to-School program for children from 0-5 and their caregivers. Check out the Duneland Early Learning HUB for more information.
• Duneland School Corporation provides preschool options for children ages 3-5 for children with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Operated by our community partner, the Duneland Family YMCA, also has two additional preschool rooms.

All of the preschool classrooms utilize a proven curriculum that help children grow their social skills and emotional well-being. The TLC ensures each child has a fun and supportive learning experience. Additionally, all preschool students participate in engaging and enjoyable activities together!

Ready to make a difference in the lives of students? Interested in a fulfilling and rewarding position with no required evening or weekend work? Looking to enjoy the same summer and holiday schedule as your kids? The primary responsibilities of Exceptional Learning (EXL) Instructional Aides range from sharing smiles, making connections, building confidence, encouraging learning, supporting students with instruction in & out of the classroom, and assisting children with self help & self management skills.

DSC is currently searching for select individuals to serve as EXL Instructional Aides. Available positions can start at $19.00, $17.00 or $15.00 per hour. Opportunities exist at elementary, intermediate and secondary levels and can:

• be full-time/benefit-eligible
• be part-time and follow the student school day
• involve sharing the day with a single student
• involve engaging with multiple learners in a classroom setting
• 
  

Do you want to earn money but still be home with your family?

Does the cost of childcare hinder your plans to work?

Does your child participate in the many afterschool opportunities?

Would you like to spend quality time with your kids during spring, summer and winter breaks?

https://www.applitrack.com/dune.../onlineapp/default.aspx...

Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at: https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/

The DSC Child Nutrition Department utilizes NutriSlice as its menus program. This app is available for iPhone and Android through your mobile app store. Parents can also access the full website for Duneland Schools on a computer via this NutriSlice link.

This app will allow parents and students to view the menus as well as the nutritional info for each menu item at any of the Duneland Schools. This program will be developed further incorporating images of the actual food items being served at each of the Duneland schools.

Menus will be posted on Thursday, Aug. 1

In the Fall of 2023, a strategic planning team was formed to review and update the current four-year strategic plan into a five-year plan that will be used to guide the Corporation from 2024-2028. The Board of School Trustees for the Duneland School Corporation approved the new DSC Strategic Plan at its December 4, 2023 regular meeting. The plan will guide DSC for the next five years in the areas of Student Achievement, Safety & Operations, People & Culture, and Finance & Facilities.

These timelines were revised as of December 2024 to reflect necessary adjustments to the plan and to ensure the continued success and growth of our educational community.

Click this link to view the new 2024-2028 Strategic Plan

Contact the Duneland School Corporation IT department via one of these methods:

1. Open a IncidentIQ ticket by sending an email to: helpdesk@duneland.k12.in.us
   
2. Log into IncidentIQ and submit a request duneland.incidentIQ.com

Families without internet due to financial hardship have access to programs from two local providers.

Comcast Internet Essentials:

• Families that qualify for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and other programs may also qualify for the Internet Essentials program from Comcast.

• This program offers internet at a low cost per month.

• Additional options and services are also available

• More information is available at this Comcast link

Frontier Lifeline Program:

• Families that qualify for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and other programs may also qualify for the Lifeline Program from Frontier.

• More information is available at this Frontier link

Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us

Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us
Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA
Phone: 219-983-3600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/
Twitter: @dunelandk12