What’s recently happened?
The Valparaiso High School (VHS) Drama Club performed their annual Mocha Madness comedy production from February 23 to 26. No two shows were alike due to the randomness of student imagination and audience participation, creating a can’t-miss performance each night.
“In Mocha, you have to come up with a lot right on the spot. Developing this ability has really boosted my confidence throughout high school and other aspects in my life,” said Evyenia Lawely.
During the Mocha Madness performance, students get inspiration from words the audience shouts out and from audience reactions.
“Getting the audience involved is one of my favorite parts. It creates a new show every night giving me something to look forward to when I get on the stage,” Emily Ogrentz.
Not only do the students enjoy performing, they enjoy spending time together during practices and outside of school grounds.
“The VHS Drama Club is a really good distraction from real life. I love being in a group of people that supports me. I know I can be myself and laugh with them,” said Madiyn O’Connell.
All four Mocha Madness performances had positive feedback from the VHS community.
“Mocha is my favorite show we put on as a team,” Ogrentz said.
The VHS Drama Club would appreciate it if you stay tuned for more VHS productions.
What’s coming up?
The VHS Drama Club will have one final performance for the school year. The April Antics talent show will take place April 14 and 15.
“Drama club has been something I’ve stuck to all four years of high school. I wouldn't miss this show nor should anyone else. We have some pretty talented students at VHS,” said Ogrentz.
The VHS Drama Club acts will be practicing hard these next few weeks to put on an amazing performance like always.
Another big event coming up is prom. VHS will hold their prom on May 13. Many students have already started dress shopping.
Last but not least, many seniors are looking forward to graduation which will be held on May 31.
Staff spotlight
VHS Athletic Secretary Kathy Danzi graduated from Indiana University with a degree in custom design.
“After college I had kids, and then when they grew up a little, I decided to look for a job. Paula George and Kerri Molnar told me the high school had an opening, and I applied,” she said.
Danzi’s job consists of creating sport schedules and utilizing computerized athletic schedulers, processing student athletic physical forms, maintaining team rosters, assisting in bus scheduling, and working with student athletes.
“My favorite part about working at Valpo is the kids. I would not be here if it weren't for the kids. Every new student I meet makes my job enjoyable and pleasant. I love being able to become friends with high schoolers,” she said.
After working around high schoolers for so many years, the best advice Danzi can give is to not rush to get older.
“I would definitely focus on your academics and also make sure that you have fun in school. The future is so exciting, and you shouldn't have to stress about it as a student. It will reveal itself in time,” said Danzi.
When not at school, Danzi is out supporting her kids. All of her kids play sports and one does music.
“I love running around with my kids, but if I do have time to relax, I’ll be sitting on the beach,” she said.
When Danzi does retire, she would love to move to South Carolina and take a vacation to Alaska.
Student spotlight
Senior Hillary Robbins is a cheerful student who is always up for making new friends. Robbins loves to sing and is part of the Viking Ayres Chorus. She plans to attend Valparaiso University majoring in psychology and secondary education.
“I love being at VHS. I wish I had another year because most of my friends are either juniors or sophomores,” she said.
After college Robbins plans to come back to high school as a psychology teacher. She wants to be able to make a difference in students' lives like her teachers made in hers.
“After I graduate, I will miss seeing the teachers that helped me get to where I am today – Jessalyn Duey, Beth Harmon, and Meredith Seydel. They have helped me a lot,” said Robbins.
Outside of wanting to be a teacher, Robbins does photography as a hobby. She has always had the dream to travel and photograph Europe.
Robbins advice for younger students is to make time for yourself.
“Even if it’s five minutes, it may help with stress from school,” she said.
Robbins is looking forward to her next four years at Valparaiso University.