What’s recently happened?
Crown Point High School welcomed its incoming freshmen with an informative and engaging orientation program on August 11, called Bulldog Rush. The event, designed to help new students transition smoothly into high school life, provided them with essential information, resources, and a glimpse of the exciting journey that lies ahead. The orientation was a collaborative effort involving teachers, administrators, and student mentors, all eager to guide the class of 2027 on their path to success.
The orientation emphasized the importance of fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. Students were introduced to the school's core values, such as respect, integrity, and collaboration. They were encouraged to embrace diversity, treat their fellow students with kindness, and actively contribute to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
The Crown Point High School freshman orientation successfully laid the foundation for the class of 2027 to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally during their high school years. Armed with knowledge, resources, and a network of peers and mentors, these freshmen are now ready to embark on their four-year adventure with confidence and excitement.
What’s coming up?
Crown Point High School's extracurricular landscape is undergoing a thrilling transformation as the Mock Trial and Speech & Debate clubs join forces. The melding of these two distinct yet complementary domains has sparked a new era of intellectual engagement, fostering an environment where critical thinking, persuasive communication, and legal acumen converge.
Senior Amani Aman, founder of Mock Trial said, “When I formed Mock Trial, I had the intent that we as a team would be able to compete with no problems whatsoever. However, building a criminal case is a lot of work and very time-consuming. Because of that, many people dropped out last year. I believe that the merge with Speech and Debate will help find the right people with the right determination to join,” Aman said.
The amalgamation of Mock Trial and Speech and Debate underscores the fact that successful legal professionals and public speakers require a holistic skill set. Lawyers not only need to be adept at analyzing legal scenarios but also at presenting their arguments convincingly. Similarly, effective public speakers must be able to think on their feet, construct compelling narratives, and handle intense cross-examinations. The merged club nurtures these dual skill sets, creating more well-rounded individuals.
“I hope that our team will expand in this new year and do wonderful things. I am excited to move forth in this endeavor and grow not only as a person but also as a member of a team because that is what Mock Trial is all about,” said Aman.
Staff spotlight:
Crown Point High School is not only a hub of academic achievement, but also a place where educators like Eric Beard illuminate the path of knowledge for their students. With a passion for literature that is infectious and an unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds Beard stands as an exemplary figure in the world of education.
For five years, Eric Beard has graced the halls of Crown Point High School as an Advanced Placement (AP) Literature teacher. His journey in education began with a personal connection to the power of literature that he sought to share with his students.
“I decided I wanted to become an English teacher when I was in college, because I had a couple of professors that really inspired me and encouraged me and helped me discover that I was passionate about literature. I liked the idea of working with young people at a time when they are figuring themselves out. I’ve had some influential people help me at a pivotal time and it inspired me to do the same for others,” Beard said.
Armed with a Master's degree, he embarked on his teaching career with the aim of fostering a deep appreciation for the written word and critical thinking. Beard understands that literature is a conduit for empathy, allowing readers to walk in the shoes of characters from diverse backgrounds and eras. His classroom radiates inclusivity and respect, where students are encouraged to share their interpretations without fear of judgment. This creates a dynamic and enriching learning environment where multiple perspectives are celebrated and debated, enriching the collective understanding of literary works.
“I love teaching AP Lit and I love talking about literature. That's what got me excited about teaching in the first place. I love talking about great books and digging into them and having conversations. I also just love working with students. I love helping students develop their skills and gain confidence,” Beard said.
Through his guidance, students not only decode the intricate layers of canonical texts but also emerge as articulate thinkers and perceptive readers prepared to embrace the challenges of higher education and beyond. Beard's passion for teaching, coupled with his deep reverence for literature, creates an environment where students grapple with profound ideas, challenge their intellectual boundaries and ultimately emerge as scholars ready to contribute to the broader world of academia.
Student spotlight:
Crown Point High School has a shining star in its midst, and her name is Madeline Thunberg. This remarkable student has not only carved a place for herself in the world of music but has also demonstrated outstanding leadership and editorial skills. Thunberg's commitment to excellence, dedication to her passions, and ability to excel across multiple domains make her a true inspiration to her peers.
At the helm of the Crown Point High School Marching Band, Madeline Thunberg has embraced the role of drum major with confidence. With her baton guiding the ensemble, she sets the rhythm for camaraderie, discipline, and musical excellence. Her dedication to rehearsals, her unwavering support for her fellow bandmates, and her poised presence during performances make her an exemplary leader. Under Madeline's guidance, the marching band's performances have not only resonated across the football field but also echoed in the hearts of the entire school community.
“As head drum major it has been such a privilege and an honor to see the band grow so much over the past month, and I cannot even begin to express how excited I am to lead them all throughout the season,” Thunberg said.
In the realm of visual storytelling, Thunberg shines as the editor-in-chief of the Yearbook. Her keen eye for detail, coupled with her creative vision, brings the school's memories to life on its pages. With a team of passionate individuals under her leadership, Thunberg ensures that every significant moment is immortalized through carefully crafted layouts and captivating imagery. Her ability to balance creativity, communication, and time management has resulted in past yearbooks that not only chronicle the school year but also encapsulate the spirit of unity within the student body.
“I am so excited to see where I take all of the yearbook staffers this year! They mean the absolute world to me, and I cannot wait to see what new lengths I take them to and see what new adventures they take me on this year,” Thunberg said.
As Thunberg enters her senior year, the Crown Point High School community eagerly anticipates the crescendo of her leadership journey. Through her roles as drum major and editor-in-chief, she continues to orchestrate a symphony of inspiration, leaving an enduring imprint on the school's legacy. Madeline Thunberg stands as a beacon of what it means to be a true student leader, proving that with passion, dedication, and a harmonious blend of talents, one can truly make a difference in the world around them.