What’s recently happened?
Class officer positions and voting has officially opened up at Hammond Central High School (HCHS). These positions include roles like president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. Each position has unique responsibilities.
The class president typically leads the class, often acting as an affiliation between students and administration. They typically organize events like Prom, fundraisers, and class meetings.
The vice president supports the president and steps in when necessary. The vice president often coordinates committees and helps execute class initiatives.
The treasurer manages the class budget, oversees fundraisers, and ensures that events have the necessary financial backing.
Lastly, the secretary does various tasks of taking meeting notes, managing communication within the class, and ensuring that all events are well-documented.
Students of various grade levels are left with the difficult decision of deciding who exactly to choose for office with the influx of people running.
Senior Evelyn Martinez and a mass majority of students noted they have a lot of options on the table when it comes to choosing who to promote and vote for.
“A lot of my friends and acquaintances are running. I didn't expect this many people to step up for the position. I just hope our senior year will be fun with those in office,” Martinez said.
What's coming up?
Excitement is in the air as HCHS prepares for its annual Homecoming, which will take place on September 20 and 21. This year's theme for the dance is Masquerade, adding an air of mystery and elegance to the celebration.
The festivities will begin with the much-anticipated Homecoming football game on Friday, September 20. The Prep Rally will take place during school hours from 12:40 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. at the football stadium on game day. The game will kick off at the HCHS football stadium, where students, faculty, and alumni are expected to show their school pride while competing against Culver Academies.
Senior football players and students alike are especially excited, as this marks their last Homecoming game. For many, it’s a chance to show school spirit and unite with their classmates before graduation.
“I can't wait to see other people's outfits. Homecoming is a time for people to get together outside of ordinary school clothes, so I can't wait to see everyone's plans,“ said Senior Mirella Tirado.
On Saturday, September 21, the fun will continue with the Homecoming dance, set to take place in the school gymnasium. The Masquerade theme has students preparing their formal wear and matching masks in line with the event’s elegant vibe.
The dance will feature music, snacks, and decorated spaces that align with the mysterious masquerade atmosphere. The Student Council has been hard at work planning the event, aiming to create an unforgettable night for all who attend.
Be sure to get your tickets and masks ready for a night of dancing, fun, and school pride at HCHS’s 2024 Homecoming.
Staff spotlight:
Tina Lazzarine, an art teacher at HCHS, never imagined herself teaching high school art. Her original path was far from the typical trajectory of a high school educator. After studying metalsmithing in art school and completing her graduate studies at East Carolina University, her initial goal was to teach at the college level. She taught some classes during grad school and even worked at two schools in North Carolina. However, her career took an unexpected but fortunate turn when she and her husband moved to Indiana.
Her husband, an art teacher at a former Hammond school, introduced Lazzarine to the idea of teaching high school art. She substituted at the time, but after spending time in the school environment, she was drawn to the energy of working with teenagers. Soon after, a job opportunity arose and she took it. 10 years later, Lazzarine has made a lasting impact as both a teacher and a figure to her students.
In her classroom, Lazzarine’s primary goal is to foster both artistic skills and personal growth.
"Of course, learning the basics of art is important, but it's also about growing better people," said Lazzarine.
She stresses the importance of teaching life skills such as kindness, communication, and time management—alongside technical art skills. Her holistic approach is aimed at helping students not just succeed in art, but in life.
Outside of the classroom, Lazzarine is a creator at heart. From sewing to remodeling her home, her love for making things extends beyond the art studio. Her hobbies, which include watching movies, baking, and traveling, provide a creative outlet that complements her work as a teacher.
One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching art, according to Lazzarine, is seeing students continue their artistic pursuits beyond high school.
“The most rewarding thing is when I have students who go on to pursue art, or years later they show me something that they did. Taking the time to share it with me is really sweet, and I really appreciate that,” said Lazzarine.
As for her goals, both personal and professional, Lazzarine is always striving to improve.
“Each year, I try to be a better teacher than I was before,” she said.
She has similar hopes for her students, encouraging them to not only grow in their artistic abilities but also as individuals.
The school’s Art Club has also played a meaningful role in Lazzarine’s teaching experience. Watching students grow and build friendships over the years, whether through collaborative projects or simply sharing snacks, has been a highlight of her time at HCHS.
Student spotlight:
Senior Mirella Tirado's experience as an artist is deeply tied to her surroundings, and her growth has been evident through the challenges she has faced in high school as she confronts her doubts and pushes beyond them to improve.
Her creative process is as intuitive as it is thoughtful. She begins with sketches, often relying on reference images, and gradually builds her work. She underscores her doubtful sensitivity to the evolving needs of each piece, mentally going through a back-and-forth dialogue.
"Can I do this? Or can I not do it? Then I would still push myself to at least try," said Tirado.
One of her proudest moments as an artist came when her work was showcased at another school. This particular piece was inspired by one of her favorite songs, a connection that made it deeply personal for her. Eventually, she made a $20 profit off of the piece.
Tirado's future in the arts looks bright. While she’s still deciding on specific paths, like becoming a tattoo artist or continuing her education, her commitment to art is unwavering. Art has not only given her an outlet but also a community. HCHS’s Art Club has provided her with a sense of belonging and the encouragement to continually refine her skills.
Looking back, Tirado recognizes how much art has shaped her high school experience. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s a way to cope with the stress and monotony of school life.
"It's relaxing and it takes your mind off of schoolwork. School can be very objective at times, so drawing allows me to focus on subjects that actually interest me," said Tirado.
The school’s art club has served as a creative sanctuary, allowing her to explore her passion surrounded by like-minded peers.
