Believe and Achieve Times

We are celebrating National Library Week! 🎉

Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books—they are gateways to knowledge, creativity, and endless possibilities. This special day reminds us of the vital role libraries and librarians play in our community by making books accessible and fostering a love for reading.

We’d like to give a HUGE shout-out to our incredible Media Specialists, Emily Wilt and Nadia Komp, and our amazing Library Aides, Melissa Henrichs and Laura Kerr, for all the hard work they do to keep our library running smoothly. Whether you're looking for a great book, need help with research, or just need a quiet place to focus, they are always here to !

So take a moment today to appreciate our library, grab a new book to read, and say thanks to our library staff for everything they do. Happy National Library Week!

This week, we are celebrating National Assistant Principals Week—a time to recognize the unsung heroes of our school who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly!

A HUGE shout-out to our incredible Associate Principal, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and our amazing Assistant Principals, Mr. Blumenthal, Mr. Tenbarge, and Mrs. Hawkins! 🎉 These dedicated leaders support our teachers, motivate students, create a positive learning environment, and handle the many unexpected challenges that come their way every day.

Their hard work and commitment make Chesterton High School a better place for all of us, so be sure to take a moment this week to say thank you and show your appreciation.

Happy National Assistant Principals Week! 🎉👏

Chesterton High School Child Nutrition hosted their Grand Opening of The Daily Grind, Coffee Shop and Bistro this past Tuesday, April 1. The Daily Grind will serve breakfast from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM and lunch from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Both meal periods will feature full meal options, ensuring that all students can enjoy the exciting new area.

Read the story from Chesterton Trojans by Tom Keegan

Last week, our talented IB Art students hosted their annual art show, showcasing a year’s worth of dedication, creativity, and expression. The exhibit was open to the public, students, and staff, offering all attendees a chance to experience the powerful and personal work of our young artists.

Each student selected and displayed their favorite pieces, reflecting a wide range of artistic styles and heartfelt themes. Their artwork was a window into their individual journeys and the passion they've poured into their craft all year long.

A huge congratulations to both the students and their teachers for putting on one of the most memorable and inspiring art shows in the region! Your hard work and artistry continue to make us proud.

The Chesterton High School Science Olympiad team competed at the State Science Olympiad on Saturday, April 5 against 22 Indiana high schools. Taryn Wellensiek and Lauren Yarosz earned a 3rd place medal in Bungee Drop. The team earned 10th place overall.

Members of the team include Andrew Adams, Oliver Appel, Izdel Berruecos Huerta, Nicholas Carpentier, Giacomo DePasquale, Natalie Fry, Ria Kashyap, Alaina Welsh McGrogan, Elizabeth Tatone, Mia Tsugawa, Elizabeth Uehling, Abby Vidt, Callum Webb, Taryn Wellensiek, Oliver Wood, Lauren Yarosz, and Jany Zhang. Congratulations to the entire team on a great season!

Porter County Career Center and Chesterton High School student Anthony Crum was awarded a full academic and housing scholarship last evening by Urschel Laboratories in Chesterton. The scholarship is available for 2 and 1/2 years and an estimated value of 60,000 dollars. It's the 23rd full scholarship that Urschel Laboratories has provided to Northwest Indiana High school students.

The picture has Anthony's mother Amy Crum and Greg Carmack, the Precision Machining Instructor.at the Porter County Career Center.

As we prepare for the upcoming soccer renovation construction project, I want to inform you of necessary parking adjustments that will take effect on Monday, March 31, and remain in place for the remainder of the school year.

Key Changes:

• The parking lot between the soccer field and tennis courts, as well as the 28 spaces in front of the soccer stadium, will be closed for the remainder of the school year.

• All staff who currently park in these areas will now park in the faculty lot on the west side of the building.

• All PM vocational students will be issued a laminated parking pass, which must be displayed at all times. These students are the only students permitted to park in the faculty lot, specifically in the last row closest to 11th Street.

• Students who fail to park in their designated area may face disciplinary consequences, including the potential loss of driving privileges at CHS.

While we recognize that construction projects can cause temporary inconveniences, this renovation will ultimately enhance a majority of our programs and provide all of our students with more field space, benefiting CHS for years to come.

We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we work through these necessary improvements. I appreciate your flexibility, and I hope you all have a wonderful and restful Spring Break!

April 2: IB Art Exhibit: 5:30pm - 8pm - Upper Gymnasium - Door 31

April 3: IB Art Exhibit: 5:30pm - 7pm - Upper Gymnasium - Door 31

April 3: Incoming 9th grade Transition Fair: 6pm - 7:30pm - Auditorium / Gym - Door 31

April 10: CHS Blood Drive

April 17: Academic Awards Night: 9th - 12th grade: 6pm - Auditorium - Door 31

May 2: Senior Decision Day: - All lunches

May 3: Prom: 6-10pm - Duneland Falls

May 7: 5% Banquet - Invitation only: 6pm - Spa

May 12: Senior Honors Night: 6pm - 12th grade by invitation only - Auditorium - Door 31

May 23: Senior Banquet: 6pm : CHS Cafeteria

May 23, 27, 28, 29: Final Exams

May 29: Last day of school

On April 17th, we will host Academic Awards Night in the CHS auditorium. We will be honoring students in grades 9 through 12 for their academic accomplishments, . At Academic Awards Night, the following students will be honored for their academic achievements:

• 9th grade students who have a 3.96 GPA or higher after 1 semester
• 10th grade students who have a 3.91 GPA or higher after 3 semesters
• 11th grade students who have a 3.86 GPA or higher after 5 semesters
• 12th grade students who have a 3.81 GPA or higher after 7 semesters (Seniors will receive a Maroon and Gold cord at this event to wear during the June 4 graduation ceremony)
• 12th grade students who earn the Governor's Work Ethic Certification will receive a Gold and White Cord to wear during the June 4 graduation ceremony.
• 12th grade students who have earned perfect and exemplary attendance awards.

Students who qualify for these awards will be sent an invitation for this event the first week of April.

Chesterton High School will host its 6th annual Porter County Disability Resource Fair on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. The 2025 Porter County Disability Resource Fair, featuring over 40 vendors from Northwest Indiana, will offer information and feature local support services for people of ALL ages with disabilities. Chesterton High School is located at 2125 S. 11th St., Chesterton, IN. Attendees are asked to use Door#31 on the north side of the building. For additional information, contact Ezra Burke at eburke@duneland.k12.in.us.

Duneland School students participating:

Bailly: Calvin Aubin, Lily DiBona and Ivan Ford

Brummitt: Addilyn Cowser, Cameron Olson, Evan Olson, Ian Thode and Rowan Wallace

Liberty Elem: Levin Holmes

Jackson: Leah Craycraft

LIS: Celia Arizzi, Taylor Balon, Maddie Dietrich

LMS: Zachary Alvarez, Isabelle Fields, Charly Love and Jonathon Lus

WIS: Brenna Dunlap, Arya Ford, and Addison Spanapoulos

WMS: Graciela Gonzalea Greeman and Katie Sim

CHS: Beck Bradstetter, Dane Cooper, Ryan Kasper, Michael Shumante, Anna Holmes, Karleigh Pawlyszyn, Sophia Sylvester, Damion Lopez, and Christian Uzelac

Registration for DSC 2025 Summer School programs will open up on Monday, March 17. New this year is the ability for parents to register for summer school via the Skyward Family Access. For directions on how to register your child please follow the links below based on the current grade level of your student.

Instructions for Grades K-7 - Registration Open March 17 - April 15

Instructions for Grades 8-12 - Registration Open March 17 - May 2

Note: Students in grades 8-12 who are interested in taking PE should review the additional information on the Flex PE Credit and reduced diploma requirements prior to registering.

Grades PreK-7 Summer School will take place at Liberty Elementary School from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. in Session 1 Only. Grades 8-12 Summer School will take place at Chesterton High School from 7:30 a.m. - 12:55 pm for both Session 1 and 2.

Separate invitations will be provided for families interested in KinderCamp, our Pre Kindergarten Program.

Need Skyward Support? If you need support in registering for summer school within the Skyward Arena Scheduling please call your child’s school and the Skyward/Office Administrative Assistant can provide support.

Should you have any questions about summer school programming please contact the following:

Grades PreK-7 - Call the Department of Teaching & Learning at 219-983-3656

Grades 8-12 - Contact the CHS Counseling Office at 219-983-3730

Dear Families,

We are excited to announce that we have adopted a new form of school-to-home communication at called ParentSquare for the 2025-2026 school year. This unified communications platform is designed to keep parents and guardians informed and encourage greater engagement and connection with [school or district name]. It provides a safe way for district administrators, school principals, teachers, staff, and parents to:

• Send and receive school and class information

• Share pictures and files

• See calendar items

• Sign up to volunteer

• Schedule parent-teacher conferences

• and much more . . . all in one centralized place!

Parents—Getting Started Video

All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices).

Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions.

This communication addresses the increasing prevalence of Virtual Private Network (VPN)

usage and aims to provide clarity on its implications for online safety and security.

What is a VPN?

A VPN establishes a secure, encrypted connection between a user's device and the internet.

This encrypted "tunnel" can enhance privacy by masking internet traffic, potentially

protecting browsing history and location data.

Why are we talking about VPN’s?

We have observed a rise in VPN usage among students. While VPNs can offer certain

benefits, it is important to select reputable providers to mitigate potential risks.

Key Considerations:

● Data Transmission and Trust: When utilizing a VPN, internet traffic is routed

through the provider's servers. Selecting an untrustworthy provider may compromise

sensitive information, including browsing history and credentials.

● Server Infrastructure and Security: The security and location of VPN servers

significantly impact data protection. Providers utilizing servers in insecure or

unknown locations increase the risk of unauthorized access.

● Limitations of Anonymity: It is important to understand that VPNs do not

guarantee complete online anonymity. Less reputable VPN providers may still collect

and track user data. Free VPN’s almost certainly collect and track user data AND

expose account information to the provider.

Recommendations:

We strongly advise careful consideration before utilizing any VPN service, particularly those

from unknown sources and free VPN’s. Please prioritize thorough research to identify reliable

and trustworthy providers.

Our primary objective is to foster a secure online environment for all students. Should you

have any inquiries or require further clarification, please contact our helpdesk at helpdesk@duneland.k12.in.us.

Capital Improvements for 2025

The Duneland School Corporation will continue to improve current facilities to enhance the student experience with the following capital improvements in 2025: playground replacements at Bailly, Brummitt, Jackson, and Liberty elementary schools and soccer stadium renovations and carpet replacement at Chesterton High School. This presentation below provides additional details on the scope of each project. Concept drawings and timelines regarding 2021-2025 capital improvement projects are available on the DSC website.

2025-2026 FAFSA Now Open
Students are encouraged to file before Indiana's April 15 deadline

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Commission for Higher Education announced today a statewide completion goal for the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Commission’s goal is to have at least 60 percent of high school seniors complete the current FAFSA by Indiana’s deadline of April 15, 2025. The 2025-2026 FAFSA form is currently open.

Additionally, the Commission seeks to increase the total FAFSA filing rate including high school seniors, adult learners, and returning students by at least five percent from the previous year. For 2024, Indiana ranks second in the nation in completion rates for this year’s high school graduating class, with less than a 2-percentage point decline compared to the national average of a near 9-percentage point decline.

“Indiana ranks third in the Midwest and eighth in the nation for our need-based aid opportunities,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery. “With legislative increases in 2023, Hoosier students have access to even more financial aid than before. Millions of dollars in additional aid are available throughout the next five years, only accessible through the FAFSA.”

The FAFSA not only determines federal grant and scholarship eligibility but is used to award state financial aid, including the Frank O’Bannon Grant, Indiana’s largest need-based financial aid award. It is also necessary for 21st Century Scholars to complete the FAFSA to receive their scholarship.

“While cost remains a high barrier for many Hoosiers looking to pursue education and training after high school, Indiana has opportunities to alleviate those challenges and make higher education accessible,” said Lowery.

FAFSA Week of Action

The U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) has announced December 9-13 as the FAFSA Week of Action. This week is specifically aimed at encouraging high school seniors to create their StudendAid.Gov Accounts (FSA IDs) and complete the FAFSA. The USDOE and Indiana Commission for Higher Education are encouraging high school counselors, principals and other school leaders, superintendents, after school programs, parent groups, non-profit organizations, and other local and state education organizations to commit to taking action to raise awareness about the FAFSA form.

More resources and information are available through the National College Attainment Network (NCAN).

Creating a StudentAid.Gov account (also called FSA ID account)

Students and parents (of dependent students) or spouses (of independent students) must create a StudentAid.Gov Account (FSA ID) at least three days before filing the FAFSA. Resources needed to create a StudentAid.Gov Account include:

• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Mailing address
• Personal email address
• A memorable username and password

How to file the 2025-2026 FAFSA

Students can file the FAFSA online at studentaid.gov. Information needed to complete the FAFSA include:

• Gov Account (FSA ID)
• Federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned from 2023
• List of any federal benefits received
• Asset information including bank statements and records of investments (if applicable)
• Records of untaxed income (if applicable)

Help is available

The Commission’s Outreach Coordinators are available to assist students and families in the filing process. Outreach Coordinators are strategically located in eight geographic regions in Indiana and can help students, families, and educators with questions about state financial aid and filing the FAFSA.

To send a direct message to your region’s Outreach Coordinator, visit www.learnmoreindiana.org/contact.

Additional resources:

• Hoosier families can also access free FAFSA help through INvestEd by email (outreach@investedindiana.org) or phone at 317-715-9007.
• ¿Necesitas ayuda en español? Llame al 317-715-9007.
• The U.S. Department of Education provides email and live chat assistance for FAFSA filers as well as a helpline at 1-800-4-FED-AID.

FAFSA filing events

Higher education institutions around the state are hosting FAFSA filing events for students and families.

To view the upcoming events calendar, visit learnmoreindiana.org

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About the Indiana Commission for Higher Education
Created in 1971, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education plans, coordinates and defines Indiana’s postsecondary education system to align higher learning with the needs of students and the state. The Commission also administers Indiana’s financial aid programs, including the 21st Century Scholars early college promise scholarship, which celebrated 30 years in 2020.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emily Price
463-261-7397
eprice@che.in.gov

Daniel Ayres-Kobren
317-232-1032
dayreskobren@che.in.gov

We want to take a moment to share how much we value your presence at school each day. Your attendance not only supports your academic success but also plays a vital role in creating a vibrant, positive school culture. Each student brings unique talents, ideas, and energy that enriches our community and makes a difference in our classrooms, hallways, and beyond.

When you’re here, you’re part of a team that values growth, kindness, and achievement. We are thrilled to see you each morning, ready to learn, connect, and make memories. Together, we build a stronger, more connected school where everyone has a place to thrive.

Thank you for your commitment to being here and for contributing to the wonderful atmosphere at our school. Let’s make this year one of connection, success, and positivity. We are so glad you’re here with us!

On Monday, October 7, 2024, the Duneland School Board approved a K-12 addendum for all school handbooks. This addendum addresses how school administration responds to threats of violence made by students. It is important that students know of the potential repercussions of their words. The schools will be addressing this addendum with students prior to it going into effect on Monday, October 14, 2024. This addendum, is also available in each of the school handbooks under Student Code of Conduct/Specific Rules of Behavior.

This past July, the Town of Dune Acres gifted Chesterton High School with a donation towards drug awareness and education for students and families. Duneland School SROs have worked closely with Chesterton administration to cultivate educational opportunities, using materials purchased through Human Media Relations, to help students who may struggle with vaping and drug pressures.

Deferment course materials, in tandem with family conferences, are aimed towards giving students more knowledge about the dangers of vaping and controlled substances, as well as establishing trusted working relationships between the school, SROs, and families.

On July 1, 2024, the Indiana Legislators enacted a new law for all K-12 schools in Indiana. The law reads as follows:

Electronic Devices (P.L. 108-1994, HEA 1202): Wireless Communication Devices

Per IC 20-26-5-40.7: the use of wireless communication devices, including but not limited to cellular telephones, tablet computers, laptop computers, gaming devices, smartwatches, etc., is strictly prohibited during academic class periods unless explicitly authorized by the teacher for educational purposes.

Students are permitted to use a wireless communication device in the event of a health or safety emergency or to manage health care as specifically defined in the student’s Individualized Health Plan (IHP), Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and/or Section 504 Plan.

A wireless communication device is defined by Indiana law as any portable wireless device that has the capability to provide voice, messaging, or other data communication between two (2) or more parties.

Chesterton High School’s new policy regarding wireless communication devices includes cell phones, earbuds/headphones, smartwatches, and any other auxiliary device that can be paired with a cellular phone. When a student is directed by a teacher or staff member to follow the established classroom phone/wireless communication policy, noncompliant students will be referred to the office and are subject to disciplinary action for insubordination.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a focused and productive learning environment at CHS.

Thank you to all of our students and parents for helping us get off to a good start regarding our arrival and dismissal procedures! We will continue to make adjustments to effectively get our buses out and on their routes. When we work together then we can accomplish anything!

Key Changes:

• Morning Drop-Off: All students being dropped off before 8:10 AM must be dropped off at Door 34 or Door 31.
• Afternoon Pick-Up: All students being picked up after 3:10 PM must be picked up at Door 34 or Door 31.

This change is being made to ensure that our buses can enter and exit CHS safely and on time.

We appreciate your cooperation in following this new policy and helping us maintain a smooth and efficient arrival and dismissal process for all students.

Thank you for your continued support.

In efforts to help with our arrival and dismissal procedures at CHS the following procedures will be implemented for all student drivers.

All student drivers must purchase a student parking pass and display visibly to park at Chesterton High School. You can pick up a student parking application in the main office. All students need to have a complete application and student parking pass by the end of the day on Wednesday, August 21. There will be no fee for the student parking pass.

Parking Guidelines:

• Students are only allowed to park by Door 31, Door 34, and in the back of the school by the tennis courts.
• Students are NOT allowed to park in the front of the building (west side), which includes the faculty lot and the visitor lot.

Failure to follow this policy could result in disciplinary action and/or loss of driving privileges.

Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines.

CHS currently offers 67 Dual Credit courses! Our goal at CHS is for 75% or more of our students to earn dual credit while they are in high school and 40% of our seniors to earn 1 years worth of college credit. We have dual credit partnerships with Ivy Tech Community College, Purdue Northwest, Ball State University, University of Southern Indiana, Vincennes University, and Indiana University. Ivy Tech is our main partner for dual credit opportunities. We offer many courses through our Dual Credit partnerships that are part of the Indiana College Core (ICC) Transfer Library. This means that students who take these FREE courses will be able to transfer those college credits to any state funded institution. The current cost of a year of college at a state funded school (ex. IU or Purdue) is approximately $10,000 for tuition plus room and board. By earning these credits at CHS you could save A LOT of money!

To be eligible for dual credit, students need to apply to Ivy Tech AND earn a score of 70 or higher on both English and Math STEM Knowledge Assessments BEFORE registering for a dual credit course.

Scan the QR Code below for the steps to apply for Ivy Tech Dual Credit courses. Once you apply, you will be able to register for dual credit courses. If you have any questions or need assistance contact Mrs. Tiffany Hawkins, CHS Assistant Principal, at 219-983-3730 or thawkins@duneland.k12.in.us.