What’s recently happened?
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology (HAST) recently had the Lake County Health Department visit the school to provide valuable dental education to the students.
“We appreciate their time and effort in supporting our students' overall well-being and helping them understand how small daily choices can make a big impact. It's always great to connect with community partners who bring real-world knowledge into our classrooms,” said Stephanie Kite, HAST social media manager.
The presentation lasted for about 25 minutes, with various groups of students being educated at the same time.
“I enjoyed the presentation. I did Dentistry Careers at the Area Career Center last year so I had some knowledge on the facts. It was great to have a refresher and even learn new things,” Senior Emalie Patino said.
What’s coming up?
The HAST theatre class is ready to present its latest work, “The Experiment.”
“I’m so excited for people to see it. We’ve been putting hard work on the show for like the past month and it’s turning out so good. I think it’ll be a great show and the people in our class really bring it all together,” Junior Lynette Montes said.
“The Experiment” will showcase in the HAST gym on May 8 at 6 p.m. in the presentation of the Fine Arts festival.
“Running our lines, coming up with different hairstyles for each character, picking out costumes, and even the music and sound effects is really fun. There’s never really a dull moment. When I picked to take a theatre class, I didn't think I would actually enjoy it as much as I do now, but I’m so glad I did,” Junior Julianna Jimenez said.
The show consists of seven characters all fighting to survive while dealing with their own forms of deception, fear, and struggle in power.
Staff spotlight:
Jennifer Kleszynski has been a staff member at HAST since the 2019-2020 school year and has enjoyed it tremendously.
“This is my sixth year teaching science at HAST. I started off in middle school as a seventh grade science teacher. Last year, I was asked if I wanted to teach high school biology, and I didn't hesitate to say yes,” Kleszynski said.
Wanting to become an educator came from her love of science and the need to pass it on. She wanted to be the one who makes students excited about asking questions and exploring answers, along with making a difference in children's lives.
“Science has always been a love of mine since I was in elementary school. When I was in college, I took a biology course and was hooked ever since. What also inspired me was in my junior year of college, I had to come home due to an emergency in the family. My dad was having open heart surgery. Being up on the cardiovascular floor talking to his doctors and surgeons helped,” Kleszynski said.
Kleszynski’s favorite part of teaching biology are the dissections.
“It’s cool watching that shift — where students go from squeamish hesitation to full-on curiosity. At first, my students when doing dissections are backing away, hiding behind their lab partner. A lot of them wanted to opt out of the dissection. Five minutes in, they’re joining in the dissection and helping cut open the specimen pointing out organs, asking questions, and totally locked in. That moment of real, hands-on learning is unbeatable,” Kleszynski said.
During her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and reading. With family in Indianapolis, she often travels down to pay a visit.
Student spotlight:
Jalissa Cabello has been a student at HAST since she was first entering the sixth grade. She is currently a junior and preparing for her senior year.
“Over the years, I've remained active in both academics and extracurriculars. I've attended several school dances, including homecoming, and I'm looking forward to going to prom next year. I currently attend the Area Career Center for the EMT program and have participated in Mock Trial for the past two years. In middle school, I also played a few sports, which helped build my teamwork and time management skills,” Cabello said.
After high school, Cabello plans on attending Indiana University to pursue its radio and technician program.
“Since turning 15, I've balanced school and work. I've maintained a strong GPA by staying focused and disciplined, and I take pride in being able to manage both responsibilities. I genuinely enjoy working, especially interacting with customers,which has helped me grow my communication skills and confidence,” Cabello said.
In her free time, Cabello enjoys going to the gym and has grown a passion for lifting. She also values quality time with family, her boyfriend, and time for self care.
