What's recently happened?
The time has come for academic competition! The Wheeler High School (WHS) Bearcats did not disappoint this weekend. The science, math, and English academic teams performed in an educated manner in their competition, which led them to success.
The WHS academic teams placed second overall at the Purdue Northwest Invitational over the weekend. The students that make up the academic teams are some of the most passionate and driven students WHS has to offer. We could not be more proud of our Bearcats!
In sports news, senior gymnast Sarah Mella qualified for the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) State gymnastics meet. Mella placed third in the Valpo Regional competition. Her hard work and dedication to her sport truly paid off.
What's coming up?
Some of the most exciting times of the school year are the various breaks in which students are able to take time to relax. With spring break a short four days away, students are itching to travel to somewhere sunny and warm; whether that be the Florida keys, or under a blanket in the comfort of their own home.
"I am so excited for spring break. My family and I are traveling to Florida this year, and I cannot wait to spend some time on the beach. School has been especially stressful this year, since it's my senior year, so this will be a nice final break before graduation," said Senior Lili Ball.
Along with looking forward to spring break, students are also awaiting prom. Some students have found their perfect dress and are waiting to showcase their looks.
More information regarding this year's prom is to come as it is released.
Staff Spotlight
Melissa Pearce is one of the most hardworking, caring, and passionate teachers WHS has ever seen. From teaching English, creative writing, mass media, and student publications, Pearce has done it all.
This year primarily, Pearce teaches mostly analytical writing courses. One of them includes her creative writing class. Currently, her creative writing class is working on their poetry collection. No matter what writing style occurs, Pearce makes sure to give feedback whenever asked.
Pearce's classes stand out from most. She makes sure to conference with every student before they turn in their final writing product; a process in which she carefully assesses each piece of work to carefully aid the student in curating their best possible work.
Besides teaching, Pearce enjoys spending time outdoors. She is an avid gardener, with three greenhouses currently. This is no surprise, as her room is full of luscious green vegetation.
Pearce's favorite part of teaching is seeing students after she has had the opportunity to teach them.
"I immensely enjoy being able to see students after having them in my class. It's such a pleasurable experience to watch them grow into adults, since I am only able to teach them for a short amount of time," said Pearce.
Pearce is currently the co-sponsor to the new gaming club, an exciting installment that meets every Wednesday.
"It's small, but I think it'll grow into something great," Pearce stated.
Student spotlight
Senior Alexandra Olympidis is not only a dedicated student, but an extremely passionate individual.
Olympidis attends the dental vocational program held by the Porter County Career Center at Portage High School. Throughout her time at this program, Olympidis has learned the trade of dentistry with hands-on experience.
Since the program lasts the entire school year, the last eight weeks are dedicated to preparing students for professional dentistry by hosting clinicals. Olympidis chose her clinicals to be held at Braces For All Ages, an Orthodontist office in Portage.
"My experience with my clinicals at Braces For All Ages has been indescribable. I have a passion for dentistry, and gaining hands-on experience is one of the best ways to learn this trade. The knowledge I have gained from working one on one with patients has, I feel, prepared me for my upcoming career as a dentist or orthodontist," said Olympidis.
Aside from her vocational training, Olympidis enjoys spending time with her friends, working on her physical fitness, and playing with her cat.
Olympidis plans on attending the University of Kentucky in the fall to earn a bachelor of science degree regarding human health sciences.