DuneNews Sept. 3, 2026

Sept. 3, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 6   No School - Labor Day Sept. 7 There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Monday, September 7 to observe the Labor Day holiday. All classes will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 8.   CHS Summer Trail Bound Experience This past summer, 18 Chesterton High School students led by teachers Bob DeRuntz and Jamie Sensibaugh participated in Trail Bound XXVI.  For the last 26 years, Trail Bound has led CHS students across the country each summer to hike in our wilderness areas and study our history on site where it happened.  This year, Trail Bound XXVI hiked at Natural Bridge in Kentucky, kayaked in an underground mine, descended into Mammoth Cave and followed the life of Abraham Lincoln from his birthplace in Kentucky, to his boyhood home in Indiana to his Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois, to Chicago where Abraham Lincoln was nominated for President of the United States.   CHS Homecoming 2026 Homecoming Parade Call-out to participate Chesterton High School will celebrate Homecoming 2026 on Friday, September 25 with the Homecoming Parade at 5:00 PM, followed by a home varsity football game vs. Laporte High School at 7:30 PM. Homecoming Parade participation call-out: Chesterton community schools/school groups, businesses, and/or community organizations interested in participating in the annual CHS Homecoming Parade should complete and submit this Google Form by Tuesday, September 15. Please direct any questions to CHS Assistant Principal Adam Tenbarge at atenbarge@duneland.k12.in.us, or call the CHS Assistant Principals' office at 219-983-3730. Parade Participation & Route, Homecoming Royalty: Participants will begin lining up at 4:00 PM in the East and South parking lots of the current Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus & Trojan Learning Center. The parade will start promptly at 5:00 PM.   The CHS homecoming parade will leave the South lot traveling east on Porter Avenue to S Calumet Road, north on Calumet Ave to Broadway, traveling west on Broadway (the street the parade will use to come back south to the YMCA HL Campus is yet to be determined).  The parade will be followed by the CHS home game against Laporte High School at 7:30 PM. The Homecoming Court will participate in the parade, and Homecoming Royalty will be crowned at halftime of the football game.   9/11 Memorial at CHS The Chesterton High School annual 9/11 memorial will again be on display in front of the CHS Stadium along 11th St. beginning on Thursday, Sept. 10 after school.  Each flag on display bears the name of a soul lost on Sept. 11, 2001 in the tragic attacks on America. The memorial will be on display through mid-morning on Saturday, Sept. 12.   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. ParentSquare calls the phone that is designated as a cellular phone first (not your Primary phone). Please review your contact information in Skyward. In addition to (#1) Primary phone, you must list a (#2) Cell phone (please use the dropdown arrow to select it as cellular) in order for ParentSquare to work properly. Both the Primary and the Cellular phone can be the same number. Work phone listings should always be listed as phone #3. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent should have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions.   2026-2027 School Breakfast and Lunch NUTRISLICE PLEASE NOTE: DSC is no longer utilizing the Nutrislice app for school menus. Menu links for each school are available on the Child Nutrition website. Nutritional information is available by clicking on the menu item. PRINTABLE MENUS Need a printable 1-page menu? Click on the links below... Pre-K Elementary Intermediate/Middle Chesterton High   The Daily Grind   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   NEW for 2026-2027 - Parent/Guardian PIN FAMILY 1 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, all DSC parents and guardians were required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) during the registration process. This PIN must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-outs for CHS students. The PIN serves as an additional layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FAMILY 2 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: Unfortunately, Skyward does not allow a PIN to be established for Family 2. Family 2 parents/guardians must visit a school building where one of their children attends to inquire about establishing their own PIN. This additional step is necessary because there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent a Family 2 parent/guardian from creating a Parent/Guardian PIN.    Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 Brummitt - Sept. 9 Jackson - Sept. 24 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 Yost - Sept. 30 LIS - Sept. 3 WIS - Sept. 3 LMS - Sept. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 Chesterton Coed Cheer Giveback Event Visit Nutrition Cove in Chesterton on Sunday, Sept. 13 from 9:00am-1:00pm amd support the Chesterton Coed Cheer team.  Just mention Chesterton Coed Cheer at checkout!   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   DEF Family Fun Fest Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment, food, and activities for all ages at the Duneland Education Foundation Family Fun Fest on Sunday, Sept. 13 from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. PCHD Resource: Autism Elopement Kit The Porter County Health Department is offering this resource to parents/guardians of a child with a formal autism diagnosis. Click on the image above to view a PDF version.   Chesterton Dance Team Kiddie Camp The Chesterton Dance team will host a Football Dance Kiddie Camp on October 16 from 4-7 p.m. Campers will receive a t-shirt, bow, pizza and water before the game. Click on the image above to register. SEPAC - CommUNITY Resources Porter County Education Services SEPAC parent group will host a CommUNITY Resource Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 29 from 6-8 p.m.at the Porter County Career & Tech Center, 1005 Franklin Street in Valparaiso. This event is for families with children that have an IEP or are pursuing one. This is an excellent opportunity for parents/caregivers and team members to meet resources in our community. Click on the image above to learn more about SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council). Mark your calendars and join us for an informative and supportive evening. We look forward to seeing you there!   Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Child Nutrition Associates Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Child Nutrition Associates for the 2026-2027 school year.  For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. This May, the HUB is exploring exciting topics like bugs,animals, dinosaurs, and so much more with our families. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, Sep 03 2026

DuneNews Aug. 27, 2026

August 27, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 5   No School - Labor Day Sept. 7 There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Monday, September 7 to observe the Labor Day holiday. All classes will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 8.   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. ParentSquare calls the phone that is designated as a cellular phone first (not your Primary phone). Please review your contact information in Skyward. In addition to (#1) Primary phone, you must list a (#2) Cell phone (please use the dropdown arrow to select it as cellular) in order for ParentSquare to work properly. Both the Primary and the Cellular phone can be the same number. Work phone listings should always be listed as phone #3. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent should have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions.   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   NEW for 2026-2027 - Parent/Guardian PIN FAMILY 1 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, all DSC parents and guardians were required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) during the registration process. This PIN must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-outs for CHS students. The PIN serves as an additional layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FAMILY 2 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: Unfortunately, Skyward does not allow a PIN to be established for Family 2. Family 2 parents/guardians must visit a school building where one of their children attends to inquire about establishing their own PIN. This additional step is necessary because there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent a Family 2 parent/guardian from creating a Parent/Guardian PIN.    Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 Brummitt - Sept. 9 Jackson - Sept. 24 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 Yost - Sept. 30 LIS - Sept. 3 WIS - Sept. 3 LMS - Sept. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 CHS - Aug. 27 & 28 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 2027-2027 School Breakfast & Lunch Prices Visit the DSC Child Nutrition Department webpage for links to menus The menus will allow parents and students to view the menus as well as the nutritional info for each menu item at any of the Duneland Schools.   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   DEF Family Fun Fest Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment, food, and activities for all ages at the Duneland Education Foundation Family Fun Fest on Sunday, Sept. 13 from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m..   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. PCHD Resource: Autism Elopement Kit The Porter County Health Department is offering this resource to parents/guardians of a child with a formal autism diagnosis. Click on the image above to view a PDF version.   Chesterton Dance Team Kiddie Camp The Chesterton Dance team will host a Football Dance Kiddie Camp on October 16 from 4-7 p.m. Campers will receive a t-shirt, bow, pizza and water before the game. Click on the image above to register. SEPAC - CommUNITY Resources Porter County Education Services SEPAC parent group will host a CommUNITY Resource Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 29 from 6-8 p.m.at the Porter County Career & Tech Center, 1005 Franklin Street in Valparaiso. This event is for families with children that have an IEP or are pursuing one. This is an excellent opportunity for parents/caregivers and team members to meet resources in our community. Click on the image above to learn more about SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council). Mark your calendars and join us for an informative and supportive evening. We look forward to seeing you there!   Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. This May, the HUB is exploring exciting topics like bugs,animals, dinosaurs, and so much more with our families. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, Aug 27 2026

DuneNews Aug. 20, 2026

August 20, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 4   School to Begin on Monday, August 24 A message from the Superintendent DSC Community, The start of the school year was not anything any of us envisioned. The storm that moved through our area on August 11 was massive and taxed the resources of Northwest Indiana. Our Duneland community was among the hardest hit, with lengthy power outages, downed trees and power lines, and storm debris scattered throughout the area. We saw more than devastation, though. We saw neighbors helping neighbors and communities coming together to provide water, food, and assistance. We saw our towns and county doing everything within their power to help, along with linemen from across the United States converging on our area to help restore electricity and bring back a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible. This response speaks volumes about the character of the Duneland community, and we are very proud of everyone. Overall, the school corporation sustained a few hundred thousand dollars in damage and repair costs. However, it could have been much worse. All of our buildings are now ready to welcome students. We are also thankful that the vast majority of our families now have power restored. Our thoughts remain with those who are still without electricity, and we hope their service is restored as quickly as possible. I want to personally thank all of our DSC employees who helped the school corporation recover from the storm and/or prepare for the return of our students on Monday, August 24, 2026. Their dedication and hard work have been incredible, and I am extremely grateful for their efforts. Finally, we appreciate the support our community has shown as we have navigated this delayed start. Decisions like these are not easy, but we tried to consider every facet of the situation and its impact on our students, families, staff, and community before making these decisions. Our ultimate goal is to have a fantastic first day of school for all of our students, and we believe this additional time will help us accomplish that goal. Please be reminded that we will host an open house at our five elementary schools on Friday, August 21, from 4:00–5:30 p.m. for our elementary students and their families. Also, CHS will host their open house on Wednesday, August 26 from 5:15-7:30 p.m. We are still awaiting a response to our waiver request from the Indiana Department of Education regarding the number of waiver days that will be granted to local schools. We are personally advocating for the Duneland School Corporation each day. Once we receive a response, we will share it with our stakeholders and adjust the calendar as needed. Once again, thank you for your support of our schools. We are honored to serve this community! Sincerely, Robert McDermott Superintendent   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   NEW for 2026-2027 - Parent/Guardian PIN FAMILY 1 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, all DSC parents and guardians were required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) during the registration process. This PIN must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-outs for CHS students. The PIN serves as an additional layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FAMILY 2 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: Unfortunately, Skyward does not allow a PIN to be established for Family 2. Family 2 parents/guardians must visit a school building where one of their children attends to inquire about establishing their own PIN. This additional step is necessary because there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent a Family 2 parent/guardian from creating a Parent/Guardian PIN.    Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses are hosted at each child’s respective school building. Families may use this opportunity to visit the student's classroom, learn important information about the upcoming school year, and meet the student’s teacher. Look for information closer to each event from the respective buildings for details.   ELEMENTARY GRADES K-4 (at respective buildings) Friday, August 21, 2026 4:00-5:30 p.m.  CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL 9-12 2125 S 11th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Wednesday, August 26, 2026 5:15-7:30 p.m. DEVELOPMENTAL PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES (times changed)* AM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.* PM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 11:30 - 2:00 p.m.* First Day of Classes for Developmental Preschool: Wednesday, August 26, 2026. NORTHWEST INDIANA ONLINE SCHOOL (NWIOS) K-12 Watch the NWI Online ParentSquare posts and messaging for additional information and updates regarding onboarding, schedules, and next steps.   Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Helpful Information For Families Visit this link to find out information about... Items for Student Success (aka School Supplies) Daily Schedule for Schools School Lunch & Breakfast Menus Transportation School Handbooks and more... https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/about-us/enrollmentregistration/registration-info   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. Please review your contact information when registering your student for the 2026-2027 school year. You must list a (#1) Primary phone and (#2) Cell phone (the Primary and Cell phone numbers can be the same number) for Parent Square to work properly. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent must have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions. Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 Brummitt - Sept. 9 Jackson - Sept. 24 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 Yost - Sept. 30 LIS - Sept. 3 WIS - Sept. 3 LMS - Sept. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 CHS - Aug. 27 & 28 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 2027-2027 School Breakfast & Lunch Prices Visit the DSC Child Nutrition Department webpage for links to menus The menus will allow parents and students to view the menus as well as the nutritional info for each menu item at any of the Duneland Schools.   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   DEF Family Fun Fest Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment, food, and activities for all ages at the Duneland Education Foundation Family Fun Fest on Sunday, Sept. 13 from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m..   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. PCHD Resource: Autism Elopement Kit The Porter County Health Department is offering this resource to parents/guardians of a child with a formal autism diagnosis. Click on the image above to view a PDF version.   Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. This May, the HUB is exploring exciting topics like bugs,animals, dinosaurs, and so much more with our families. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, Aug 20 2026

DuneNews Aug. 14, 2026

August 14, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 3   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   NEW for 2026-2027 - Parent/Guardian PIN FAMILY 1 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, all DSC parents and guardians were required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) during the registration process. This PIN must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-outs for CHS students. The PIN serves as an additional layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FAMILY 2 PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: Unfortunately, Skyward does not allow a PIN to be established for Family 2. Family 2 parents/guardians must visit a school building where one of their children attends to inquire about establishing their own PIN. This additional step is necessary because there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent a Family 2 parent/guardian from creating a Parent/Guardian PIN.    Duneland School Board Recognitions CHS Boys' Varsity Baseball Congratulations to the Chesterton High School Boys Varsity Baseball team for a successful season and a DAC Championship. Members are: Brayden Barrett, Troy Barrett, Jason Bogner, Caysen Bontrager, Dylan Bradford, Rob Czarneicki, Joshua Davis, Zachary Fender, Mason Forrester, Nicholas Foust, Vincent Fox, Ethan Glassman, Andrew Goveia, Greg Guernsey, Caden Hackett, Robert Hanson, Kaden Hawksworth, Justin Hecimovich, Adam Kurek, Hunter Leach-Griffin, Luke Lively, Brady McCormack, Jake Pacilio, Nathan Redman, Matthew Sandrick, and Lucas Thompson. Coaches are John Bogner, Jason Bogner, Justin Bogner, Austin Cooley, Jeremy Driskill, Anthony Gentry, Chris Hackett and Matthew McDougal.   DSC Staff Opening Day The district hosted their annual Opening Day Welcome Back event for teachers and support staff on the morning of Monday, August 10 at CHS. Everyone enjoyed a full breakfast, an encouraging message from the superintendent, a video of 2026 CHS graduates sharing some of their memories from their time in Duneland Schools, and an energetic message from keynote speaker Kim Campbell. Also, honored for their years of service at the Opening Day event were: 45 years DSC School Bus drivers Terry Dunn and Sandra Phelps 40 years DSC Administrative Assistant Rose Lipniskis. Absent from the photo is WIMS Media Specialist Paul Napier 35 years Bailly Elem. first grade teacher Susan Rehtorik 30 years Liberty Interm. 6th grade teacher Sheri Simmons, and Bailly Elem. Kindergarten teacher Jamee Swanson. Absent from photo is School Bus Driver Brenda Aaron 25 years WIS 5th grade teacher Susan Casey, LIS 5th grade teacher Dave Lashnik, CHS custodian John Little, and JA custodian Greg Lagenour. Absent from photo is bus aide Jean Orlowski and school bus driver Judith Shultz. 20 years WIS Instructional coach Megan Sutton, CHS Science teacher Stephanie Nichols, CHS Social Studies teacher Daniel McCoy, CHS Art Teacher Colin May, and DSC school bus driver Sue Ailes 20 years (cont.') LES High Ability Teacher Holly Koedyker, LIS 6th grade teacher Kristi Berry, CHS math teacher Suzanne Amling, CHS Asst. Athletic Director Tommy Berry, CHS Science teacher Robert Martino, DSC Developmental Kdg teacher Lisa Byrnside, YO Kdg teacher Cassidy Nay, and YO instructional coach Betsy Kazmierczak. Absent from photo is CHS testing coordinator Lisa Scheiber. Inspire • Engage • Empower   Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses are hosted at each child’s respective school building. Families may use this opportunity to visit the student's classroom, learn important information about the upcoming school year, and meet the student’s teacher. Look for information closer to each event from the respective buildings for details.   ELEMENTARY GRADES K-4 (at respective buildings) *Future Date to be Determined watch for information from the school  CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL 9-12 2125 S 11th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 *Future Date to be Determined watch for information from the school DEVELOPMENTAL PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES AM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. PM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.  First Day of Classes for Developmental Preschool: Wednesday, August 26, 2026. NORTHWEST INDIANA ONLINE SCHOOL (NWIOS) K-12 Watch the NWI Online ParentSquare posts and messaging for additional information and updates regarding onboarding, schedules, and next steps.   Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Helpful Information For Families Visit this link to find out information about... Items for Student Success (aka School Supplies) Daily Schedule for Schools School Lunch & Breakfast Menus Transportation School Handbooks and more... https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/about-us/enrollmentregistration/registration-info   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. Please review your contact information when registering your student for the 2026-2027 school year. You must list a (#1) Primary phone and (#2) Cell phone (the Primary and Cell phone numbers can be the same number) for Parent Square to work properly. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent must have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions. Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 Brummitt - Sept. 9 Jackson - Sept. 24 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 Yost - Sept. 30 LIS - Sept. 3 WIS - Sept. 3 LMS - Sept. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 CHS - Aug. 27 & 28 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 2027-2027 School Breakfast & Lunch Prices Visit the DSC Child Nutrition Department webpage for menus program. This app is available for iPhone and Android through your mobile app store. Parents can also access the full website for Duneland Schools on a computer via this NutriSlice link. This app will allow parents and students to view the menus as well as the nutritional info for each menu item at any of the Duneland Schools. This program will be developed further incorporating images of the actual food items being served at each of the Duneland schools.   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us. PCHD Resource: Autism Elopement Kit The Porter County Health Department is offering this resource to parents/guardians of a child with a formal autism diagnosis. Click on the image above to view a PDF version.   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. CHS Bowling Club Call Out Meeting The Chesterton High School Bowling Club will host a call out meeting for students to learn more about the club, meet the coaches and get ready for a great season. Link to register for the meeting:   Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. This May, the HUB is exploring exciting topics like bugs,animals, dinosaurs, and so much more with our families. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Friday, Aug 14 2026

DuneNews Aug. 7, 2026

BACK-TO-SCHOOL 2026-2027 August 7, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 2   CLASSES BEGIN AUGUST 12, 2026 Duneland School Corporation students will begin the new school year on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 School day start and end times: Elementary (K-4) 7:30 a.m. – 2:20 p.m. High School (9-12) 8:10 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. Intermediate/Middle (5-8) 8:50 a.m. – 3:50 p.m. Developmental Preschool (DPK) First Day of Classes for Preschool: Wednesday, August 26, 2026. AM Session: 8:00 - 10:30 a.m. PM Session: 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.   Student Activities CHS Cheer Team Attends UCA Masters Cheer Camp The Chesterton High School Cheer program participated in the UCA Masters Cheer Camp at Ball State University from July 14–17.  Throughout the week, the student athletes worked tirelessly to improve their skills, strengthen their teamwork, and represent Chesterton High School with pride. Their commitment, enthusiasm, and positive attitudes were recognized throughout camp with numerous individual and team honors. One of the greatest accomplishments of the week was earning the prestigious UCA Master’s Leadership Award for the third consecutive year. This award is especially meaningful because it is voted on by the other teams attending camp. Each team is asked, “If you couldn’t be on your own team, which team would you want to be on?” The CHS Cheer team was incredibly proud to be recognized by their peers for their leadership, sportsmanship, and the positive culture they create. Fight Song Award Spirit Award - 'The Banana' The entire Chesterton Cheer program also earned the coveted Spirit Award, better known around camp as “The Banana.” This award recognizes the team who consistently brings the most enthusiasm, encouragement, and positive energy throughout the week. Receiving this honor among more than 20 outstanding teams is a testament to the passion and pride athletes bring every day. Junior Varsity Camp Awards Most Improved Camp Routine Most Creative Fight Song Best Presentation of Material Cheer Varsity Camp Awards Basket Superstar Best Energy Cheer Most Creative Stunt Sequence Seven seniors and one freshman also earned the prestigious UCA All-American distinction. This honor recognizes athletes for their outstanding technical ability, leadership, and performance, and provides them with the opportunity to perform at a Varsity Spirit event in London, Hawaii, or Orlando. 2026 UCA All-American Recipients Alana Hernandez Grace Miller Kyliann Hill Emma Gilbert Cole Gilbert Ethan Wood Brendan Brady Talyia Howard Another special recognition presented during camp is the Pin It Forward Award, which is awarded by the UCA staff to athletes who demonstrate exceptional kindness, leadership, service, and positivity. The CHS team is proud to congratulate Emma Gilbert and Jaxon Schilla on receiving this honor. 2026 Junior Varsity Team members are: Raegan Adkins, Yanna Beach, Autumn Clark, Cian Duffie, Riley Evans, Becca Freites, Chrissy Gilmore, Talyia Howard, Mya King, Ryder Monik, Addy Thompson, Mikayla Wozniak, Jaxon Schilla 2026 Varsity Team members are: Brendan Brady, Carly Decker, Jules Depew, Ashlyn Dolph, Emma Gilbert, Cole Gilbert, Adriana Gorbea, Alana Hernandez, Kyliann Hill, Kathryn Jasch, Andie Kollar, Madelyn Lyons, Ella Marganti, Hadynn Martinez, Jacob Moore, Weston Moore, Autumn Orban, Bre Pappas, Canon Surane, Kendall Tarnow, Ethan Wood, Sophia Ontiveros Chesterton High School Cheer coaches
are: Tara Graf, Calla Dolph, Cordie Armstrong, Grant Gilbertson, Emma Sieman  “We could not be more proud of every athlete in our program,” said Tara Graf, head coach. “Their dedication to improving their skills, supporting one another, and representing Chesterton High School with integrity made this an incredibly successful week. The awards they earned reflect not only their talent, but also the character, leadership, and family atmosphere they continue to build together.”   Marine Biology in the Florida Keys Several Chesterton High School students participated in the five-day Marine Biology summer class lead by teachers Adam Schultz and Dan Paff in the Florida Keys. The students had many amazing wildlife encounters during their trip, including both green sea turtles and loggerhead sea turtles, southern stingrays, and two big eagle rays. In addition to learning how to underwater dive and a taking a class on fish identification, students also had lab time where they learned about how microplastics affect the environment and helped to brainstorm solutions to the problem. Aside from their days of diving and work in class, students had an afternoon of sightseeing and exploring Key West.   STAFF ACTIVITIES Culinary Skills for A+ School Meals Above, front row, right to left, CN Operations Coordinator Jenny Mears; CHS Site Lead Amber Wise; CHS Cook Maria Naglak; CHS Asst. Site Lead Joy Brajkovich; CHS Daily Grind Site Lead Vickie Sowards; and Brummitt Cook Megan West. Back row, Chef Marcus; Chef Ryan; Dietitian -Cathy; Liberty Intermediate Site Lead Krista Wellensiek; and Chef Rebecca. Congratulations to Duneland School Corporation Child Nutrition staff who completed a week long Culinary Skills Training course recently.  The Indiana Department of Education School and Community Nutrition offered a five-day culinary skills workshop for school nutrition professionals this summer entitled, Culinary Skills for A+ School Meals. School nutrition operations are transforming and standards require schools to offer more fruits, vegetables and whole grains and students demand tastier, fresher and more contemporary menu items. While this brings some challenges it also brings many opportunities to add new, exciting items to the menu.   Welcome New 2026-2027 Teachers Above, left to right, District social worker Abbigail Perez; Assistant Superintendent Dr. Benjamin Tonagel; and Director of Teaching & Learning Brooke Busse. CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL Left to right, Chesterton High School teachers Will Fortenberry, Faith Williams, Shawn Sherwood, Doug Fezler, Nicole Martinez, Stephanie Harnew and Lorelei Jaeger. Absent from photo is Josh Malone. INTERMEDIATE / MIDDLE SCHOOLS Left to right, Westchester Intermediate teachers Bailey Lauritzen, Jayme Price and Katherine Palmer; Westchester Middle teachers Caroline McKiddy and Cael Balash; and Liberty Middle teacher Jacob Warren. Absent from photo is Brittney Krieg and Austin Pizer. ELEMENTARY - JACKSON, LIBERTY & YOST Left to right, Meghan Quinn, Jackson Elem.; Carie Robbins, Jackson Elem.; Aaliyah Schoenborn, Liberty Elem.; April Gerdom, Liberty Elem.; and Hannah McElroy, Yost Elem. ELEMENTARY - BAILLY & BRUMMITT Left to right, Danielle Reed, Brummitt Elem; and Bailly Elementary teachers Cindy Wolters, Alyssia Verlinden, Ashly Carlson, and Danielle Martinez. Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   Back-to-School Open Houses CHS Freshmen Orientation TROJAN CHARGE, a Freshmen orientation program, will be hosted on Wednesday, Aug. 5 from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Chesterton High School. The day will be filled with activities to get incoming Freshmen acclimated to CHS. Students will also get an opportunity to meet upperclassmen, sign up for clubs, have a CHS lunch, open their lockers, and walk their school schedule. Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses are hosted at each child’s respective school building. Families may use this opportunity to visit the student's classroom, learn important information about the upcoming school year, and meet the student’s teacher. Look for information closer to each event from the respective buildings for details. ELEMENTARY GRADES K-4 (at respective buildings) Tuesday, August, 11, 2026 4:00-5:30 p.m.  INTERMEDIATE GRADES 5-6 (at respective buildings) Monday, August, 10, 2026 4:00-5:30 p.m.  MIDDLE GRADES 7-8 (at respective buildings) Monday, August, 10, 2026 6:00-7:30 p.m.   CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL 9-12 2125 S 11th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Thursday, August 13, 2026  5:15-7:30 p.m. DEVELOPMENTAL PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES AM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. PM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.  First Day of Classes for Developmental Preschool: Wednesday, August 26, 2026. NORTHWEST INDIANA ONLINE SCHOOL (NWIOS) K-12 (All students must complete annual onboarding to complete enrollment in the online school option): GRADES K - 5 ONBOARDING SESSIONS OPTION 1 - Grades K- 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 1:00 – 2:00 pm Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/kfw-kmwb-gbd OPTION 2 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 4:15 – 5:15 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/fsv-emnc-kff OPTION 3 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Thursday, August 13 - 5:30 - 6:30 pm  Google Meet: meet.google.com/fqv-ehtf-uci OPTION 4 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Tuesday, August 18 · 9:00 - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/wot-xwmz-zdb OPTION 5 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 19 · 5:30 - 6:30 PM Google Meet: meet.google.com/jnf-umsq-qnr GRADES 6 -12 ONBOARDING SESSIONS OPTION 1 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 3:00 - 4:00 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/owe-gqzi-uso OPTION 2 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 - 5:30 – 6:30 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/qzg-jbjk-tpe OPTION 3 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Thursday, August 13 - 9:00 am - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/pay-bdyt-aso OPTION 4 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Tuesday, August 18 - 5:30 - 6:30 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/qia-sydu-ggy OPTION 5 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 19 - 9:00 - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/evy-ytcs-npz   Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Helpful Information For Families Visit this link to find out information about... Items for Student Success (aka School Supplies) Daily Schedule for Schools School Lunch & Breakfast Menus Transportation School Handbooks and more... https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/about-us/enrollmentregistration/registration-info   Online Student Registration Incoming Kindergarten through Grade 11 If you haven’t already registered, please log into your Skyward Parent Access to complete your registration. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. Need help or more details? Visit DSC 2026-2027 registration site for all the info you need under Helpful Information for all families including tips for using Skyward Parent Access. During school hours you can also contact your child’s school for help and support if needed. We appreciate you taking the time to get this completed! Northwest Indiana Online Registration for 2026-2027 Link to: NWIOS Online School Application or click on the image below   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. Please review your contact information when registering your student for the 2026-2027 school year. You must list a (#1) Primary phone and (#2) Cell phone (the Primary and Cell phone numbers can be the same number) for Parent Square to work properly. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent must have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions. Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide  Transportation Bus routes available on Monday, Aug. 10 Bus routes for registered Duneland students will be available on Monday, August 10 via the Skyward Parent Portal. Please check the Skyward Parent Portal the day before school starts for any updates and changes to busing information and visit the Transportation Department page for additional information.   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 Brummitt - Sept. 9 Jackson - Sept. 24 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 Yost - Sept. 30 LIS - Sept. 3 WIS - Sept. 3 LMS - Sept. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 CHS - Aug. 27 & 28 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 2027-2027 School Breakfast & Lunch Prices Visit the DSC Child Nutrition Department webpage for menus program. This app is available for iPhone and Android through your mobile app store. Parents can also access the full website for Duneland Schools on a computer via this NutriSlice link. This app will allow parents and students to view the menus as well as the nutritional info for each menu item at any of the Duneland Schools. This program will be developed further incorporating images of the actual food items being served at each of the Duneland schools.   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us. PCHD Resource: Autism Elopement Kit The Porter County Health Department is offering this resource to parents/guardians of a child with a formal autism diagnosis. Click on the image above to view a PDF version.   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. CHS Bowling Club Call Out Meeting The Chesterton High School Bowling Club will host a call out meeting for students to learn more about the club, meet the coaches and get ready for a great season. Link to register for the meeting:   Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit: DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. This May, the HUB is exploring exciting topics like bugs,animals, dinosaurs, and so much more with our families. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Friday, Aug 07 2026

DuneNews 7/23/26

BACK-TO-SCHOOL 2026-2027 July 23, 2026 Vol. 61 No. 1   CLASSES BEGIN AUGUST 12, 2026 Duneland School Corporation students will begin the new school year on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 School day start and end times: Elementary (K-4) 7:30 a.m. – 2:20 p.m. High School (9-12) 8:10 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. Intermediate/Middle (5-8) 8:50 a.m. – 3:50 p.m. Developmental Preschool (DPK) AM Session: 8:00 - 10:30 a.m. (revised) PM Session: 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (revised)   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   Back-to-School Open Houses CHS Freshmen Orientation TROJAN CHARGE, a Freshmen orientation program, will be hosted on Wednesday, Aug. 5 from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Chesterton High School. The day will be filled with activities to get incoming Freshmen acclimated to CHS. Students will also get an opportunity to meet upperclassmen, sign up for clubs, have a CHS lunch, open their lockers, and walk their school schedule. Back-to-School Open Houses Back-to-School Open Houses are hosted at each child’s respective school building. Families may use this opportunity to visit the student's classroom, learn important information about the upcoming school year, and meet the student’s teacher. Look for information closer to each event from the respective buildings for details. ELEMENTARY GRADES K-4 (at respective buildings) Tuesday, August, 11, 2026 4:00-5:30 p.m.  INTERMEDIATE GRADES 5-6 (at respective buildings) Monday, August, 10, 2026 4:00-5:30 p.m.  MIDDLE GRADES 7-8 (at respective buildings) Monday, August, 10, 2026 6:00-7:30 p.m.   CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL 9-12 2125 S 11th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Thursday, August 13, 2026  5:15-7:30 p.m. DEVELOPMENTAL PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES AM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. PM Developmental Preschool - Tuesday, August 25, 2026 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.  First Day of Classes for Developmental Preschool: Wednesday, August 26, 2026. NORTHWEST INDIANA ONLINE SCHOOL (NWIOS) K-12 (All students must complete annual onboarding to complete enrollment in the online school option): GRADES K - 5 ONBOARDING SESSIONS OPTION 1 - Grades K- 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 1:00 – 2:00 pm Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/kfw-kmwb-gbd OPTION 2 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 4:15 – 5:15 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/fsv-emnc-kff OPTION 3 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Thursday, August 13 - 5:30 - 6:30 pm  Google Meet: meet.google.com/fqv-ehtf-uci OPTION 4 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Tuesday, August 18 · 9:00 - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/wot-xwmz-zdb OPTION 5 - Grades K - 5 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 19 · 5:30 - 6:30 PM Google Meet: meet.google.com/jnf-umsq-qnr GRADES 6 -12 ONBOARDING SESSIONS OPTION 1 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 · 3:00 - 4:00 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/owe-gqzi-uso OPTION 2 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 12 - 5:30 – 6:30 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/qzg-jbjk-tpe OPTION 3 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Thursday, August 13 - 9:00 am - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/pay-bdyt-aso OPTION 4 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Tuesday, August 18 - 5:30 - 6:30 pm Google Meet: meet.google.com/qia-sydu-ggy OPTION 5 - Grades 6 -12 - VIRTUAL Wednesday, August 19 - 9:00 - 10:00 am Google Meet: meet.google.com/evy-ytcs-npz   Immunization requirements for the 2026-2027 school year Required School Immunizations, Indiana 2026-2027 by Grade: Students entering Kindergarten: DTaP, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Students entering 6th Grade: Tdap, MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 11 years old are eligible to receive these vaccines Students entering 12th Grade: MCV4 (Meningococcal) *Note: Students who are 16 years old are eligible to receive the 2nd dose of this vaccine 2026-2027 School Immunization Requirements Visit the Duneland Schools Health Services site for more student health-related information, forms and paperwork.   Helpful Information For Families Visit this link to find out information about... Items for Student Success (aka School Supplies) Daily Schedule for Schools School Lunch & Breakfast Menus Transportation School Handbooks and more... https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/about-us/enrollmentregistration/registration-info   Online Student Registration Incoming Kindergarten through Grade 11 If you haven’t already registered, please log into your Skyward Parent Access to complete your registration. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. Need help or more details? Visit DSC 2026-2027 registration site for all the info you need under Helpful Information for all families including tips for using Skyward Parent Access. During school hours you can also contact your child’s school for help and support if needed. We appreciate you taking the time to get this completed! Northwest Indiana Online Registration for 2026-2027 Link to: NWIOS Online School Application or click on the image below   DSC ParentSquare Communication Platform PLEASE NOTE: Parent contact information is fed to ParentSquare through information provided by parents/guardians in Skyward. Please review your contact information when registering your student for the 2026-2027 school year. You must list a (#1) Primary phone and (#2) Cell phone (the Primary and Cell phone numbers can be the same number) for Parent Square to work properly. Why am I not receiving information via ParentSquare? Each parent must have a separate email address and cell phone number listed in their Family Skyward account to individually receive posts and information regarding their student(s). You can add or change this information by going into Skyward Family Access and clicking on Student Info. Why do you need to register? ParentSquare automatically generates an account for each parent, using the primary email address and phone number and the email used by Family Access. You will, by default, receive emergency alerts automatically and school/district post notifications in a "daily digest" format. To customize your notification settings, interact using the app, complete forms such as field trip permission slips, and more, you need to register with ParentSquare. Why should I get the ParentSquare App? Downloading the ParentSquare app provides a convenient and efficient way for parents to stay connected with their child's school and receive important information directly on their mobile devices. It streamlines communication, allowing for quick access to messages, notifications, and school updates, as well as direct communication with teachers and staff.  About Parent Square - Getting Started All district and school, grade level and classroom information will now be sent to your computer or phone via email and/or text. For even more convenience, download the ParentSquare app (available for free for iOS and Android devices). Have questions? Click the question mark in the top right corner of the desktop version or the Help tab on the app (tap the triple bar icon at the top left) to find answers to most of your questions. Link to ParentSquare Quick Guide   Transportation Bus routes available on Monday, Aug. 10 Bus routes for registered Duneland students will be available on Monday, August 10 via the Skyward Parent Portal. Please check the Skyward Parent Portal the day before school starts for any updates and changes to busing information and visit the Transportation Department page for additional information.   Links for Parents DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below).   School Picture Date / Picture Retakes Date Bailly - Sept. 24 / Nov. 5 Brummitt - Sept. 9 / Oct. 14 Jackson - Sept. 24 / Nov. 12 Liberty Elem - Sept. 14 / Nov. 5 Yost - Sept. 30 / Nov. 12 LIS - Sept. 3 / Nov. 6 WIS - Sept. 3 / Nov. 6 LMS - Sept. 4 / Nov. 4 WMS - Sept. 4 / Oct. 20 CHS - Aug. 27 & 28 / Oct. 1 NWI Online/RISE Academy - Sept. 28 / Dec. 1 Duneland Early Learning - Oct. 6 & 7 / Dec. 1 2027-2027 School Breakfast & Lunch Prices Visit the DSC Child Nutrition Department webpage for lunch prices, menus and nutritional information, MyPayments Plus meal account information, and the Free and Reduced Meals application. Click on the image above to access the links.   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   Family Fun Fest at Sunset Hill Farm   2026-27 CHS Yearbook - Order today! Order your 2026-2027 Chesterton High School yearbook today! Click on the image above to view a PDF version. Employment Opportunities Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1& Instructional Aides Needed The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Exceptional Learning Instructional Aides for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment NOW HIRING Lunch & Lunch/Recess Aides The Duneland School Corporation is seeking Lunch and Lunch/Recess Aides in the schools for the 2026-2027 school year. For more information or to apply visit DSC Support Staff Employment   Duneland Early Learning HUB Come visit the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be the first birth-to-school initiative in Porter County. It’s a special place where caregivers and children can come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0-5, we invite you to join us Monday through Friday beginning on Sept. 14 at the HUB for some fun and engaging activities! We will host Open Houses Thursday, Sept 3 and Friday, Sept 4. Enroll today! Don’t miss out on this FREE program—visit our DSC website to learn more and get involved! DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2026-2027 school year   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! The Trojan Learning Center (TLC) provides a variety of educational opportunities designed to support young children and their families. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer: Duneland Early Learning HUB A FREE program for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school educational experiences. Learn more about this exciting initiative here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Tailored programs for children ages 3-5 with developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Duneland Family YMCA Partnership In collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, we offer two additional preschool classrooms, expanding learning options and enhancing the educational experience. Our preschool programs are grounded in a research-based curriculum that promotes children’s social skills and emotional development. At TLC, we ensure every child is immersed in a nurturing, engaging environment with activities designed to bring all preschoolers together!   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at:  https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/ NorthShore Duneland School Clinic NorthShore Health Center has partnered with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for your child during school hours. Click on the image above to view the flyer. DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Instagram: dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County. [Monday, Aug 3 at 12:06 PM] Please note that the Duneland School bus route assignment will now be available on Monday, August 10.

Thursday, Jul 23 2026

DuneNews 5/27/26

May 28, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 38   Last Issue of the DuneNews This is the LAST issue of the DuneNews for the 2025-2026 school year. The DuneNews will resume with a Back-To-School issue for the 2026-2027 school year in mid July and regular issues every Thursday after school begins on August 12. Have a great summer!   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Trojan Marching Band performs in the Indy 500 Festival All-Star Parade Members of the Trojan Guard Marching Band performed in the National Band Association's "All-Star Marching Band" for the Indianapolis 500 Festival Parade this past weekend. Since the late 90's, the National Band Association has asked Indiana high schools to nominate their finest woodwind, brass, and color guard performers in an effort to represent as much of the state as possible. However, only one drumline is selected each year through a competitive application process. After a very strong Trojan Guard season this fall, the Chesterton HS drumline was chosen this year! Additionally, 5 color guard members and 3 wind players were also chosen to represent CHS. Congratulations to all Trojan Guard members selected to perform: Chase Brum, Abigail Demsich, Giacomo DePasquale, Rylan Fields, Ava Garland, Miles Gast, Olivia Goodwin, Liam Gray, Herschel Hardwick, Lilly Hardwick, Abigail Krueger, Lacei Kuckuck, Landen Longfellow, Rowen Love, Brianna Manning, Rowan Mayes, Logan McVicker, William Newman, Lilyanne Peschke, CeCe Post, Noah Roberts, Claire Thomas, Luke Thomas, Noah Torres, Aubree Williams, Caprie Wilson, and Lauren Yarosz.   WDSO Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary Above, Student station members and school staff were honored with a proclamation from Indiana State Senator Rodney Pol, left to right, student members Nick Lackey, Aly Malinovsky, Ria Kashyap, Claire Demmon, Principal Brent Martinson, Senator Rodney Pol, WDSO Radio Station Manager Matt Waters, Aubrey Leidolf, Amare Anderson, Luke Robertson and Bear Goodman.  Congratulations to Chesterton High School radio station WDSO 88.3 FM on celebrating its 50th Anniversary. Since first going on the air in 1976, WDSO has served as both a learning laboratory for students and a valued community institution for the Duneland area. As the only operating full FM broadcast facilities in the DAC — not solely internet streaming — WDSO 88.3 FM has provided generations of students with rare, hands-on experience in broadcasting, journalism, audio production, live events, sports coverage, and media technology. For five decades, WDSO has given students authentic real-world learning opportunities while also informing and entertaining listeners throughout the community. The station’s continued success reflects the dedication of Chesterton High School students, staff, alumni, and supporters who have helped sustain this unique educational program since 1976. The station was honored with a proclamation from Indiana State Senator Rodney Pol during a 50th Anniversary celebration held on May 17.   STUDENT ACTIVITIES CHS Senior Grad Walk On May 21, a wave of excitement swept through the Duneland elementary schools as Chesterton High School (CHS) seniors, dressed in their caps and gowns, paraded through the hallways. Kindergarteners through fourth graders cheered them on, celebrating the journey of these soon-to-be graduates. It was a profoundly proud moment for both the seniors, returning to the very buildings that laid the foundation for their futures, and their former teachers who witnessed their incredible growth. Graduates were warmly welcomed with opportunities for photos with cherished educators and sweet treats, honoring their complete journey through Duneland Schools. CHS Seniors who attended the Discovery Charter School for their early education are also included.   Spanish 4 Students visit Art Institute This spring, Spanish 4 students spent a few weeks on an art & literature unit; students researched and presented on different artists from the Spanish speaking world. On Wednesday, April 15, students had the opportunity to go to the Art Institute in Chicago where they took a guided bilingual tour and then spent some time looking around the museum at the pieces and artists they had presented on. Student Adalyn Laughner Students Mia Aguilar and Harper Russell   LMS Students Lunch with Dr. Pettit Dr. Pettit visited Liberty Middle School last week to have lunch with a group of girls from the seventh grade who take part in various extracurricular activities, showcasing different perspectives and experiences. These eleven students were selected by the principal because they have strong friendships and represent the diverse interests and talents that enhance the school community.   CHS voted Best Public High School in the Region for the 4th year in a row! The Duneland School Corporation is proud to announce that Chesterton High School has once again been named the Best Public High School in the Region in the Best of the Region contest sponsored by the NWI Times! Even more exciting, this marks the fourth consecutive year that CHS has received this outstanding honor. This recognition is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and pride shown every day by CHS students, teachers support staff, parents, and the Duneland community. At Chesterton High School, excellence is built through the collective efforts of an entire school community committed to supporting students and creating exceptional opportunities for success.   LMS/WMS Recognized as a Common Sense Schools Common Sense, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families thrive in a world of media and technology, has recognized Liberty Middle School and Westchester Middle School as a Common Sense Schools. Both Liberty and Westchester have demonstrated a commitment to taking a whole-community approach to preparing its students to think critically and use technology responsibly to learn, create, and participate while preparing them for the perils that exist in the online realm, such as plagiarism, loss of privacy, and cyberbullying. With the right support, kids can take ownership of their digital lives, engage with real issues, and change their communities for the better. The recognition acknowledges our school's commitment to creating a culture of digital citizenship.  "We applaud the faculty and staff of both Liberty Middle and Westchester Middle for embracing digital citizenship as an important part of their students' education," said Merve Lapus, vice president of education outreach and national partnerships at Common Sense Education. Both of these schools deserve high praise for giving its students the foundational skills they need to compete and succeed in the 21st-century workplace and participate ethically in society at large."  These schools been using Common Sense Education's innovative and research-based digital citizenship resources, which were created in collaboration with researchers from Project Zero, led by Howard Gardner at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and are grounded in the real issues students and teachers face. The resources teach students, educators, and parents tangible skills related to internet safety, protecting online reputations and personal privacy, media balance, managing online relationships, and media literacy. The free K-12 curriculum is used in classrooms across all 50 states, in more than 80,000 schools by more than 1,00,000 educators. To learn more about the criteria to become recognized as a Common Sense School, visit https://www.commonsense.org/education/recognition-schools.   Fortenberry to join CHS as head coach of boys' varsity soccer Will Fortenberry will be presented at the Duneland School Corporation board meeting Monday night for approval as a new Social Studies teacher and head coach of boys' varsity soccer at Chesterton High School. “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Fortenberry to the CHS coaching ranks. Throughout the interview process, the committee was impressed by his experience, his leadership style, and his clear commitment to developing student‑athletes on and off the field. Will brings a strong vision for our boys soccer program, and we are excited for the direction he will provide as he steps into this role,” said Chesterton High School Athletic Director Jeff Hamstra, who headed the search committee. Fortenberry, a husband and father of two, comes to Chesterton from Boone Grove High School and replaces Lucas Sabedra, who resigned as head soccer coach last month after eight seasons on the job. Fortenberry spent four years teaching social studies and coaching boys soccer at Boone Grove, where he was an assistant for three seasons and before being promoted to the lead chair in 2025. Fortenberry also heads the Northwest Indiana United Lions club soccer team. A graduate of Portage High School and Indiana University Northwest, Fortenberry gained experience as a head boys soccer coach at Portage (2014-16) and Kankakee Valley (2017-2019). He also directed the Portage Parks Youth Soccer Academy for three-and-a-half years. “I love it,” Fortenberry said of coaching. “It’s obviously very similar to teaching, making the relationships and watching the growth kids have. Soccer has been my love for a long time. I enjoy watching the sport that I love and watching others enjoy it as well.” Fortenberry’s first Trojans team will baptise the school's new soccer facility when Chesterton opens the 2026 season vs. Northridge on Aug. 15. “I’ve seen pictures and videos of it,” Fortenberry said of the facility. “It’s beautiful. It’s exciting.”   STAFF RECOGNITIONS DSC 2026 Retirements DSC teacher retirees, left to right, Laura Herrod, Anne Stillman, Anne Stark and Maureen Hurst. DSC staff retirees, left to right, Norman Whitmer, Diane Michaels, Mary Branham and Colleen Bowen. Duneland School Corporation honored eight retiring teachers and support staff for their years of service at a reception hosted at the Duneland School Corporation Administration Center on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Retiring Duneland teachers and support staff have a combined total of 191 years of service at the end of this school year. The following retirees honored were: Colleen Bowen (28 years) - Brummitt Elementary Head Custodian Mary Branham (36 years) - Liberty Elementary Administrative Assistant (Main Office) Laura Herrod (29 years) - Liberty Middle Counselor Maureen Hurst (15 years) - Westchester Campus Counselor Diane Michaels (14 years) - Liberty Elementary Administrative Assistant (Media) Anne Starke (22 years) - Westchester Middle English Teacher Anne Stillman (28 years) - Bailly Elementary 4th Grade Teacher Norman Whitmer (19 years) - DSC Maintenance Those retiring this school year who were unable to attend the reception were: Dave Bullock (30 years) Kelly Griffith (10 years) - Yost Elementary Administrative Assistant (Main Office) Dale Hewitt (39 years) - Chesterton High Science Teacher Marlene Kowalecki (24 years) - Westchester Intermediate Administrative Assistant (Main Office) Kelly Miller (20 years) Child Nutrition Liberty Campus Site Lead Cris Petro (30 years) - Liberty Intermediate 5th Grade Teacher   STAFF ACTIVITIES 2026 Safety Competition / Bus 'Road'eo On Saturday, May 16, 2026, Duneland Transportation hosted the first-ever Region 1 School Bus Safety Competition (also known as a Bus 'Road'eo) which took place at the Duneland Transportation Center. This event brought together school bus drivers from across Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties to showcase and strengthen their safety skills through a series of competitive driving and inspection challenges. These include events such as parallel parking, student pickup procedures, railroad crossing simulations, and more. The purpose of this event was to promote the highest standards of student transportation safety while also highlighting the professionalism and dedication of school bus drivers—individuals who are responsible for safely transporting thousands of students every day. This event served several important purposes: 1. Promotes Safety and Skill School bus drivers demonstrate precise maneuvering, defensive driving, and adherence to safety rules. Encourages excellence in daily operations and reinforces safe driving habits 2. Encourages Professional Development Offers training and feedback opportunities to help school bus drivers improve techniques. Builds confidence and pride in their work. 3. Boosts Team Morale and Camaraderie Creates friendly competition among drivers and districts. Recognizes the hard work of school district transportation employees. 4. Recognizes Excellence Winners advanced to the 2026 Indiana State Safety Competition on Saturday, June 26 in Brownsburg, IN and may advance to regional, or national competitions which highlights the best in the field, motivating others to strive for similar achievement. 5. Engagement and Awareness Demonstrates the complexity and skill involved in operating large vehicles. Promotes respect and appreciation for school bus drivers. The Duneland School Corporation is proud to announce that Melissa Beruman, the Driver of Bus #37 tied for 1st place in the competition with an impressive overall score of 79 out of 100 possible points. Melissa services Brummitt Elementary, Chesterton High, and Westchester Intermediate/Middle schools. The Duneland School Corporation was represented by eight (8) drivers in total, and every competitor finished within the upper two-thirds of the field. Several drivers earned top-tier placements, with finishes ranging from 1st to 32nd place out of 50 scheduled competitors.   DSC Summer School Bus Routes LIMITED transportation will be provided for Summer School students. The bus routes will not be the same as during the school year. Centralized bus stop locations throughout the district are determined based on ridership. Pick-up and drop-off times are estimated by our routing system which does not factor in delays for traffic, trains, road work, etc. Students must be at the designated bus stop location 5 minutes before the estimated time. Due to the tight restrictions on time, it is important that parents are at the bus stop drop-off locations to meet their students. Pick-up and drop-off times may need to be adjusted when summer school begins. Questions concerning transportation may be directed to the Bus Barn at 219-983-3615. Bus stops for summer school classes: DSC KinderCamp Bus Route 2026 DSC K-7 Summer School Bus Route 2026 CHS 8-12 Summer School Bus Route 2026   CHS and NWIOS Commencement Info Chesterton High School The 136th annual Chesterton High School commencement exercises will be hosted on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium. In case of inclement weather: Rain date #1: Thursday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium Rain date #2: Sunday, June 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium   If it rains all day Sunday, June 7, the eight (8) tickets will be used for an indoor ceremony in the CHS Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. Student Government officers are Mackenzie Kania, president of Student Government; Devon Throw, vice president of Student Affairs & Class Liaison; Peyton Moskalick, vice president of Public Relations; Caramia Larimer, parliamentarian. Senior class senators are: Samuel Neal, Cal Stuckert, Allison Van Kley, and Elizabeth Vrahoretis.  Presenting the Commencement Address will be Physics teacher, Brian Hennigar. The class song: “Ribs” by Lorde The class flower: Hydrangea The class motto: “Do you know the Wi-Fi password?” Other events of the day include...Presentation of honor students by Brent Martinson, principal; awarding of the diplomas by Dr. Chip Pettit, superintendent of schools; Robert McDermott, assistant superintendent, and the officers and members of the Board of School Trustees of the DSC; and the traditional turning of the tassels and closing by Mackenzie Kania, president of Student Government. White admission tickets are required for early admission at commencement. The Stadium will have early admittance beginning from 5:30-6:00 p.m. Open admission will begin after 6 p.m. Each senior has been issued eight white tickets for his/her parents and relatives.  Special tickets are required for those guests who are physically unable to climb the bleachers. Students may exchange two regular tickets for two handicap tickets in the Main Office at CHS. Special handicapped parking is available. It is recommended that seniors and those with mobility limitations be dropped off while other family members park the vehicle elsewhere. A live press box view will be available of the CHS Graduation ceremony on June 3, 2026 beginning at 6:45 p.m. on Facebook Live through the CHS Facebook Page. Visitors do not need to be a member of Facebook to watch the live view. The 489 students in the Graduating Class of 2026 are: Click here to view the entire list of graduates   Northwest Indiana Online School The Northwest Indiana Online School (NWIOS)  is announcing that the third annual commencement exercises will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in the Chesterton High School Auditorium. The ceremony will consist of the following: Presentation of students by Director Christy Jarka Awarding of the diplomas by Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit, Assistant Superintendent Robert McDermott, and the officers and members of the Board of School Trustees of the Duneland School Corporation The traditional turning of the tassels and closing by Student Representatives: No tickets are required for the NWIOS commencement exercises. Family members should use entrance #31 for access to the commencement venue. The 35 graduating seniors of the NWIOS Class of 2026: Landon Eugene Belsha, Alex Nathaniel Bruce, Hayden Nicole Buckman, Sandra Liz Colon, Livia Claire Costello, Wrigley Alexander Fields, Aubrey Faith Gutierrez, Jasmine Lynn Gutierrez, Lillian Ann Heinzel, Christopher Jacen Hightower, Gabrielle Melzena Hull, Jakob Gabriel James, Ty Christian Johnson, Lilyann Grace Lane, Logan James Melton, Cesar Tomas Mendoza, Gabriel Chase Murff, Wyatt Allen Nadolski, Delaney Elaine Nava, Mariah Isabell Nevarez, Alexa Marie Pappas, Justine Ann Poe, Allianah Sartin, Jayla May Shumpert, Alyssa Adriana Simpson, Haiden Marie Soria, Kaitlyn Nicole Tuzar, Mckenzie Nicole Utley, Kailey Marie Vladika, Iva Nichole Wever, Gracie Allynn Whitmore, Sophia Rose Wojasinski, Kevin Michael Young, Kinder Anthony Zeilstra, and Gabriel Zemaitis.   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   Free Summer Meals for Kids The Duneland School Corporation will serve free summer meals Monday through Friday to all children in the Duneland School community beginning June 5, 2026 and ending on June 26, 2026. Closed June 19, 2026 to observe Juneteenth.   Liberty Elementary School, 50-1 W 900 North in Chesterton (enter Main Entrance) Breakfast will be served from 7:30am - 8:00am Lunch will be served from 11:45am - 12:15pm Chesterton High School, 2125 S 11th Street in Chesterton (enter at Door #20) Breakfast will be served from 7:00am - 7:30am Lunch will be served from 11:25am - 11:45am The Duneland School Corporation will also serve free summer meals Monday through Friday to all children in the Duneland School community at Chesterton High School only beginning July 6, 2026 and ending on July 24, 2026. Closed July 1-3, 2026. Chesterton High School, 2125 S 11th Street in Chesterton (enter at Door #20) Breakfast will be served from 7:00am - 7:30am Lunch will be served from 11:25am - 11:45am All children 18 and under are welcome to participate. Meals must be eaten on site (indoor seating provided). Elementary age children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Breakfast and lunch menus for June and July are available on the DSC website at https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/programs-services/dsc-child-nutrition-services USDA is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Free Fun Summer Meal Menus JUNE MENUS Click on the image above to view as a PDF JULY MENUS Click on the image above to view as a PDF   2026-2027 School Year Registration ONLINE REGISTRATION for the 2026-2027 school year is now open so that ALL DSC students are registered by the end of the 2025-2026 school year. To register your children online visit: Parent Access Portal through Skyward. Thank you for your time in reviewing and editing this vital information regarding your student(s) for the schools. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. NEW FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR: PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, parents and guardians will be required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) that must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-out for CHS students. The PIN serves as an added layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FEES: In accordance with Indiana Code, Duneland School Corporation does not charge fees for required curricular materials. Textbooks, instructional software, and other resources necessary for course completion are funded through state reimbursement and/or local school funds. For grades K-4, a student supply fee will be charged to cover personal student supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, and similar items. Once schedules are finalized at the beginning of the school year for grades 5-12, specific course and supply fees will be calculated.  Fees for all grades K-12 will be available for collection through Skyward’s Family Access on September 14, 2026. A reminder notification will be sent once the payment window opens.   Additional fees may apply if textbooks, library materials, or school-issued devices are lost or damaged.    DSC Summer School 2026 Registration CHS Summer School Registration closes June 4 Summer School will consist of two sessions: Session 1 from June 5 - 26, 2026 (with no class on June 19, 2026)  Grades PK - 7 and 8 -12 Session 2 from July 6- 25, 2026. Grades 8 -12 Registration? Registration for Summer School DSC 2026 opened on Monday, March 30. Families will be able to register their student(s) through their Skyward Family Access account. For directions on how to register your child please follow the links below based on the current grade level of your student. Instructions for Grades K -7 - This Registration now CLOSED Instructions for Grades 8-12 - Registration Opens March 30, 2026 - closes June 4 Note: Students in Grades 8-12, who are interested in taking PE should review the additional information on the Flex PE Credit and reduced diploma requirements prior to registering. Location: Grades PreK - 7 Summer School will take place at Liberty Elementary School from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm in Session 1 only. Grades 8 -12 Summer School will take place at Chesterton High School from 7:30 am -12:55 pm for both Session 1 and 2 KinderCamp: Separate invitations will be provided for families interested in KinderCamp, a PreKindergarten Program. Need Skyward Support? If you need support in registering for summer school within the Skyward Arena Scheduling please call your child’s school. Questions? Please contact the following: Grades PreK - 7 - Call the Department of Teaching and Learning at 219-983-3656 Grades 8-12 - Contact the CHS Counseling Office at 219-983-3730   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   THIS SATURDAY! Band Mattress Fundraiser Come get a better night’s sleep AND support the 8th Annual Chesterton Band Program MATTRESS SALE FUNDRAISER! Join us THIS Saturday, May 30 from 10AM - 5PM in the CHS Cafeteria. We carry over 30 styles of quality name brand mattresses like Simmons Beautyrest, Purple, Helix, and Therapedic, priced below retail. We will also have adjustable bases, pillows, sheets and more, all at discount prices and for a great cause! This event is ONE DAY ONLY, so we need your help to SPREAD THE WORD by inviting all of your family and friends! We will have an entire mattress store set up at the High School! Every purchase benefits the students! 12th Annual Northwest Regional Sheriff's Camp Sheriff Balon is announcing the dates and open application for its 12th Annual Northwest Regional Sheriff’s Camp for 2026! This year’s camp will be for first-time campers. Dates are August 4-6 at the Indiana Dunes State Park from 8:00 AM -2:45 PM. The cost of the camp is $50.00 per camper. Camp Application & Camp Waiver For more information, click on the image to the left to view the post on DSC's Community Opportunities page.   CHS Summer Learn To Swim Lessons Sign up now for the CHS Swim Team Learn To Swim Summer Program 2026.   Chesterton Soccer Summer Camp 2026 Chesterton Soccer will offer Summer Camp instruction for students in Pre-K-8th grade on July 20-23. The camp will be divided into three different age groups. Click the link to view the flyer. Click on the image above to register. Chesterton Summer Tennis Camp 2026 Duneland Summer Tennis Camp players from ages PreK - 9th grade will receive instruction on all aspects of the tennis game from coach Kyle Prow, Liberty and Westchester Middle School Tennis coaches, as well as the Chesterton High School Boys and Girls Tennis players. Click on the image above to register.   Chesterton Girls Basketball 2026 Summer Programs - ALL Levels (Click the image above to enlarge Program Event Guide) Girls Basketball has officially announced its 2026 Chesterton Girls Basketball Summer Program opportunities for all incoming 1st–12th grade players! This summer program is designed to help players continue building their skills, confidence, basketball IQ, teamwork, and overall love for the game while staying connected with the Trojan Basketball family throughout the offseason. Please take time to carefully review the Summer Program Event Guide for your player’s incoming grade level. The guide includes dates, times, locations, and important participation details for each opportunity offered this summer. We are also excited to launch the Trojan Sharp Shooting Club for all age levels this summer! Players will track made shots and repetitions while competing for incentives, recognition, leaderboards, social media shout-outs, and recognition during a high school home game. Registration and additional information can be found at: https://www.chestertongirlsbasketball.org/camps-leagues-training-registration Trojan Volleyball Camp for Grades 4-8 Chesterton High School is excited to announce its Trojan Volleyball Camp for 2026. The Chesterton Volleyball Program is excited to work with and provide a great experience for future Trojans in grades 4-8. To register, click on the image above or this registration link. For more information contact Lindsay Nibert at lnibert@duneland.k12.in.us   Boys Summer Basketball Camp Chesterton Boys' Basketball is excited to announce its Chesterton Boys' Summer Basketball Camp for 2026. We look forward to continuing to work toward building championships with our future players this summer. For more information contact murban@duneland.k12.in.us Register at https://www.chestertonbasketball.com/ or click the image at the left. Chesterton Football Camps Links for more information: Little Trojan Football Camp Grades 5-8 Position Skill Camps Grades 6-8 Summer Flag League   CHS Alumni Reunions CLASS of 2006: 20-Year Reunion The Chesterton High School Class of 2006 will host their 20-year reunion at the Dunes Pavilion in Chesterton on Saturday, July 18 from 6:00-9:00 PM. For more information, click on the links below: LINK TO TICKETS FACEBOOK GROUP TO JOIN CONTACT FORM FOR FUTURE REUNIONS CLASS of 1986: 40-Year Reunion Time to catch up, laugh, and relive the good old days with the Class of 1986 crew! The class is including anyone from classes of 1983-1989 as well at the Class of 1986 40th High School Reunion The 40th reunion of the Class of 1986 will be hosted at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and Pavilion on August 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM CST Come catch up, share memories, and have a blast with old friends. Don’t miss out on this special night to reconnect and celebrate together! Link for more information and tickets     LINKS FOR PARENTS   NorthShore School Clinic - Summer Hours The DSC NorthShore Health Center is located at 601 W Morgan Avenue at Door #4. Northshore partners with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for Duneland School child during school hours. Click on the image at left to view the flyer. Summer Hours: June 1 - August 7 Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Friday - Closed Services available for both students and staff in-person or telehealth   DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The 2026-2027 District Calendar is available on the Duneland School Corporation website Click the link or image above to view or print the 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below). Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In Employment Opportunities   Join the DSC Team! Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out the opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1&   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at: https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/   DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Instagram: dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, May 28 2026

DuneNews 5/21/26

May 21, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 37   Memorial Day There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Monday, May 25, so that they may observe the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 26. Last Day of School The last day of school for all Duneland School students is Thursday, May 28. Last Issue of the DuneNews Thursday, May 28 will be the LAST issue of the DuneNews for the 2025-2026 school year. The DuneNews will resume with a Back-To-School issue for the 2026-2027 school year in mid July and regular issues every Thursday after school begins on August 12.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2026 2025 Tri-County Jr/Sr HS Art Exhibition Results Several Chesterton High School and Liberty and Westchester Middle School students participated in the 52nd annual Tri-County Jr./Sr. High School Art Exhibition at South Shore Arts in Munster, Indiana. Liberty Intermediate / Middle School students: Grade 6 - Adelynne Dzugas, Colton Stover, Johanna Van Vleet; Grade 7 - David Brosas, Elinor Chmielarz; Grade 8 - Cecelia Christ, Adrienna Clemons, Isabelle Fields, Brooklyn Hardsock, Lily Huneryager, Rebecca McCord, Hannah Robertson, Lauren Spiess, Ryder Summer, Serenity Vargas, Alexa Vega Westchester Intermediate / Middle School students: Grade 6 - Evelyn Fernandez; Grade 7 - Amelia Hanas, Jocelyn Koniarz, Natalie Navarro; Grade 8 - Piper Adler, Marlo Colburn, Daelyn Dolph, Sophia Hailey, Kairi Ho, Kaitlyn Kurz, Zoey Maldonado, Olivia Vereb, Adlyn Wallace Chesterton High School students: Isabel Bartkus, Mila Beale, Ireland Carnehan, Madeleine Dailey, Elijah Osafo, Calypso Dutro, Kitt Freites, Natalie Gallo, Alissa Gutierrez, Shane Henry, Sawyer Herr, Hailey Humann, Chloe Link, Scarlet Lubeck, Klara Martens, Olivia Milton, Madison Moore, Katherine Newbanks, June Peterson, Jamie Roser, Brooklyn Towner, Elizabeth Uehling, Ava Vagner, Abby Vidt, Claire Vrahoretis, Dimitrius Weiss Receiving recognition and monetary awards this year were: CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL Jean Mudroncik Memorial Awards, $500 - Claire Vrahoritis, 12 - A$AP Rocky Donald H. Berwanger Award of Excellence, $250 - Madison Moore - Hands Sandi Kozlowski Memorial "Moving Art Forward Award, $250 - Mila Beale, 12 - Untitled Jurors' Award, $250 - June Peterson, 10 - Golden Hour Awards of Distinction, $75 - Mila Beale, 12 - Self Reflection First in Media, $50: Katherine Newbanks, 12 - Programmed (Color Pencil); June Peterson, 10 - Golden Hour (Oil Painting); Isabel Bartkus, 12 - Chromatic Sovereignty (Photography); Brooklyn Towner, 10 - Shattered (Charcoal) LIBERTY MIDDLE SCHOOL Awards of Distinction, $25 - Serenity Vargas, 8 First in Media, $25: Lauren Spiess, 8 - Pen/Ink Lily Huneryager, 8 - Acrylic/Tempera Adrienne Clemons, 8 - Pastels Rebecca McCord, 8 - Sculpture (Fiber/Wood/Metal) WESTCHESTER MIDDLE SCHOOL Best of Show, $100 - Zoey Maldonado, 8 - French Metal Patricia & Durward Schuetz Scholarship Award, $50 - Piper Adler, 8 - Epilogue Boyfriend Awards of Distinction, $25 - Adlyn Wallace, 8 First in Media, $25: Piper Adler, 8 - Color Pencil Olivia Vereb, 8 - Watercolor   DSC Students Honored at Duneland Exchange Club Breakfast ACE Award Winner - Katie Reilly Left to right, Duneland Exchange Club member Mary Talbutt, recipient Katie Reilly and her mother Cindy Reilly. Youth of the Year - Paige Engels Left to right, parents Eugene and Pamela, Engels, sister Elise Engels, recipient Paige Engels, and Duneland Exchange Club member Jackie Ruge-Perkins. School Counselors Honored Left to right, Duneland school counselors Laura Herrod, Amy Snyder, Michelle Bruss, Johanna Hess, Mimi Hurst, Gretchen Arthur, Lindsey Stainko, Lindsay Moskalick, Heather Kellogg and Sue Harmison. School Administrators Honored Left to right, DSC school administrators Chelsea Bramfeld, Shawn Longacre, Mike Hamacher, Christy Jarka, Josh Huwig, Kelly Hardwicke, Sam Marshall, Heidi Hennigar and Brent Martinson. Donation to the Natural Helpers Left to right, Duneland Exchange Club member Maria Bachuchin and CHS Natural Helpers Club sponsor Carry Knauff.   Jackson Young Citizenship Winner Above, front row, left to right, aunt Ana Osan, grandma Theresa Hernstrom, recipient Emerson Osan, brother Declan Osan, and teacher Britni Psimos. Back row, DEC presenters Michelle Jatkiewicz and Karen Moffett, grandpa Keith Hernstrom, parents Kristin and Brian Osan, and Principal Sam Marshall. The Duneland Exchange Club (DEC) recently presented Emerson Osan of Jackson Elementary School with the Young Citizenship award. This award is given to a student who is an all-around good citizen. The club presents this award to one fourth grade student at each of the five Duneland elementary schools, at the sixth grade level at each of the intermediate schools and at the eighth grade level at each of the middle schools and NWI Online School.   Liberty Middle Young Citizenship Winner Above, left to right, Principal Mike Hamacher, brother David Forsythe, Nicole Forsythe, recipient Aubrey Forsythe, DEC representatives Adam Scheerer and Justin Salamanca. The Duneland Exchange Club (DEC) recently presented eighth grader Aubrey Forsythe of Liberty Middle School with the Young Citizenship award. This award is given to a student who is an all-around good citizen. The club presents this award to one fourth grade student at each of the five Duneland elementary schools, at the sixth grade level at each of the intermediate schools and at the eighth grade level at each of the middle schools and NWI Online School.   Liberty Middle School Academic Super Bowl Results Front, left to right, Calder Schulz, Nolan Booth, Harriet Hennigar, Porter Blythe, Ben Ashford, Amogh Saxena, and Kinley Sessions. Back row, coaches Tina Clindaniel, English; Jacob McCallister, Social Studies; Kim Connelly, Math; and Jeannette White, Science. This year's Academic Super Bowl theme was the American Revolution. Our interdisciplinary team of Harriet Hennigar, Porter Blythe, Calder Schulz, Nolan Booth, and Kinley Sessions earned 1st place in the Region and 6th place in the State! Calder Schulz, Nolan Booth, and Harriet Hennigar won 1st place in the Region and 18th in the state. Our math team, Calder Schulz, Nolan Booth, and Porter Blythe, earned third in the Region, along with the LMS Social Studies team, consisting of Kinley Sessions, Ben Ashford, and Amogh Saxena. The science team, consisting of Harriet Hennigar, Ben Armstrong, and Porter Blythe, earned fourth place in the Region. We are extremely proud of our teams this year and were impressed with their dedication.   2026 National Spanish Exam Award Winners Congratulations to the outstanding Spanish students of Chesterton High School who demonstrated excellence on the 2026 National Spanish Exam (NSE)! The 54 students who earned well-deserved national recognition in this year's competition students secured four gold, two silver, and 10 bronze medals; as well as 38 honorable mentions. The achievement of earning a medal or honorable mention on the National Spanish Exam (NSE) is a testament to their dedication and hard work. The AATSP Exams is a program of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP). With a history dating back to 1957, the National Spanish Exam (NSE) is administered annually from grades 6-12 and serves as a cornerstone of academic achievement in Spanish language education.This year the NSE attracted over 80,000 student participants. Achieving gold, silver, or bronze status in the NSE opens doors for students to explore a variety of scholarship opportunities provided through the AATSP Exams program. More information about the AATSP Exams can be found at www.nationalspanishexam.org Award winners are: GOLD Blake Cacini, Valeria Chavez, Jazzmin Huizar, and Axel Jimenez Ruiz SILVER Vishva Bharath and Talan Lipka BRONZE Eshaal Ali, Clara Arizzi, Madilynn Beschinski, Caitlin Brosas, Ava Chiesi, Caden Hackett, Samantha Huijon, Michael Izguerra, Cash Saylor, and Rebeca Torres Parra HONORABLE MENTION Aarohi Agashe, Delilah Barrios, Ella Bolinger, Ava Buenaventura, Avi Burke, Rowan Cashmer, Camren Daghy, Emma Dobson, Lilly Escobar, Paul Fischer, Salina Ford, Daniel Fortner, Evelynn Fortney, Edward Galicia Ocañas, Graciela Gonzalez Greenman, Noah Haubold, Alejandra Krause, Kevin Landers, Callum McKiddy, Emery McKiddy, Grace Miller, Alexis Milton, Isabel Moreno, Brayden Orszulak, June Peterson, Mikay-Lah Ponce, Zachary Racette, Camille Reibly, Madelyn Ryan, Zavier Santiago, Emmori Schott, Ryan Seaman, Matthew Simokaitis, Eva Solmos, Bradyn Stephan, Lucinda Thompson Aubree Williams, and Grayson Zych   STAFF RECOGNITION District I Principals of the Year Congratulations to Heidi Hennigar, Liberty Elementary School Principal and Mike Hamacher, Liberty Middle School Principal for being selected as District I Principals of the year. District I consists of Lake, Porter, Newton and Jasper counties. The Indiana Association of School Principals annually recognizes outstanding school leaders in each of the 12 Indiana districts who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students. These principals are acknowledged by their peers for the exemplary contributions they have made to the profession. The IASP will honor District Principals and Assistant Principals of the Year its annual Fall Professionals Conference on November 23. Elementary School Principal of the Year Congratulations to Liberty Elementary School Principal Heidi Hennigar! Mrs. Hennigar was selected as the Elementary Principal of the Year for District I in the Indiana Association of School Principals/Assistant Principals of the Year Program. District I Middle School Principal of the Year Congratulations to Liberty Middle School Principal Mike Hamacher Mr. Hamacher was selected as the Middle School Principal of the Year for District I in the Indiana Association of School Principals/Assistant Principals of the Year Program.   CHS and NWIOS Commencement Info Chesterton High School The 136th annual Chesterton High School commencement exercises will be hosted on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium. In case of inclement weather: Rain date #1:  Thursday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium Rain date #2:  Sunday, June 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the CHS Football Stadium   If it rains all day Sunday, June 7, the eight (8) tickets will be used for an indoor ceremony in the CHS Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. Student Government officers are Mackenzie Kania, president of Student Government; Devon Throw, vice president of Student Affairs & Class Liaison; Peyton Moskalick, vice president of Public Relations; Caramia Larimer, parliamentarian. Senior class senators are: Samuel Neal, Cal Stuckert, Allison Van Kley, and Elizabeth Vrahoretis.  Presenting the Commencement Address will be Physics teacher, Brian Hennigar. The class song: “Ribs” by Lorde The class flower: Hydrangea The class motto: “Do you know the Wi-Fi password?” Other events of the day include...Presentation of honor students by Brent Martinson, principal; awarding of the diplomas by Dr. Chip Pettit, superintendent of schools; Robert McDermott, assistant superintendent, and the officers and members of the Board of School Trustees of the DSC; and the traditional turning of the tassels and closing by Mackenzie Kania, president of Student Government. White admission tickets are required for early admission at commencement. The Stadium will have early admittance beginning from 5:30-6:00 p.m.  Open admission will begin after 6 p.m. Each senior has been issued eight white tickets for his/her parents and relatives.  Special tickets are required for those guests who are physically unable to climb the bleachers. Students may exchange two regular tickets for two handicap tickets in the Main Office at CHS. Special handicapped parking is available. It is recommended that seniors and those with mobility limitations be dropped off while other family members park the vehicle elsewhere. A live press box view will be available of the CHS Graduation ceremony on June 3, 2026 beginning at 6:45 p.m. on Facebook Live through the CHS Facebook Page. Visitors do not need to be a member of Facebook to watch the live view. Northwest Indiana Online School The Northwest Indiana Online School (NWIOS)  is announcing that the third annual commencement exercises will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in the Chesterton High School Auditorium. The ceremony will consist of the following: Presentation of students by Director Christy Jarka Awarding of the diplomas by Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit, Assistant Superintendent Robert McDermott, and the officers and members of the Board of School Trustees of the Duneland School Corporation The traditional turning of the tassels and closing by Student Representatives: Aubrey & Jasmine Gutierrez No tickets are required for the NWIOS commencement exercises. Family members should use entrance #31 for access to the commencement venue.   Wireless Device Restrictions During School Hours for the 2026-27 School Year   Free Summer Meals for Kids The Duneland School Corporation will serve free summer meals Monday through Friday to all children in the Duneland School community beginning June 5, 2026 and ending on June 26, 2026. Closed June 19, 2026 to observe Juneteenth.   Liberty Elementary School, 50-1 W 900 North in Chesterton (enter Main Entrance) Breakfast will be served from 7:30am - 8:00am Lunch will be served from 11:45am - 12:15pm Chesterton High School, 2125 S 11th Street in Chesterton (enter at Door #20) Breakfast will be served from 7:00am - 7:30am Lunch will be served from 11:25am - 11:45am The Duneland School Corporation will also serve free summer meals Monday through Friday to all children in the Duneland School community at Chesterton High School only beginning July 6, 2026 and ending on July 24, 2026. Closed July 1-3, 2026. Chesterton High School, 2125 S 11th Street in Chesterton (enter at Door #20) Breakfast will be served from 7:00am - 7:30am Lunch will be served from 11:25am - 11:45am All children 18 and under are welcome to participate. Meals must be eaten on site (indoor seating provided). Elementary age children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Breakfast and lunch menus for June and July are available on the DSC website at https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/programs-services/dsc-child-nutrition-services USDA is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Free Fun Summer Meal Menus JUNE MENUS Click on the image above to view as a PDF JULY MENUS Click on the image above to view as a PDF   2026-2027 School Year Registration ONLINE REGISTRATION for the 2026-2027 school year is now open so that ALL DSC students are registered by the end of the 2025-2026 school year. To register your children online visit: Parent Access Portal through Skyward. Thank you for your time in reviewing and editing this vital information regarding your student(s) for the schools. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. NEW FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR: PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, parents and guardians will be required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) that must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-out for CHS students. The PIN serves as an added layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FEES: In accordance with Indiana Code, Duneland School Corporation does not charge fees for required curricular materials. Textbooks, instructional software, and other resources necessary for course completion are funded through state reimbursement and/or local school funds. For grades K-4, a student supply fee will be charged to cover personal student supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, and similar items. Once schedules are finalized at the beginning of the school year for grades 5-12, specific course and supply fees will be calculated.  Fees for all grades K-12 will be available for collection through Skyward’s Family Access on September 14, 2026. A reminder notification will be sent once the payment window opens.   Additional fees may apply if textbooks, library materials, or school-issued devices are lost or damaged.    DSC Summer School 2026 Registration Summer School Registration Summer School will consist of two sessions: Session 1 from June 5 - 26, 2026 (with no class on June 19, 2026)  Grades PK - 7 and 8 -12 Session 2 from July 6- 25, 2026. Grades 8 -12 Registration? Registration for Summer School DSC 2026 opened on Monday, March 30. Families will be able to register their student(s) through their Skyward Family Access account. For directions on how to register your child please follow the links below based on the current grade level of your student. Instructions for Grades K -7 - This Registration now closed Instructions for Grades 8-12 - Registration Opens March 30, 2026 - closes the last week of May Note: Students in Grades 8-12, who are interested in taking PE should review the additional information on the Flex PE Credit and reduced diploma requirements prior to registering. Location: Grades PreK - 7 Summer School will take place at Liberty Elementary School from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm in Session 1 only. Grades 8 -12 Summer School will take place at Chesterton High School from 7:30 am -12:55 pm for both Session 1 and 2 KinderCamp: Separate invitations will be provided for families interested in KinderCamp, a PreKindergarten Program. Need Skyward Support? If you need support in registering for summer school within the Skyward Arena Scheduling please call your child’s school. Questions? Please contact the following: Grades PreK - 7 - Call the Department of Teaching and Learning at 219-983-3656 Grades 8-12 - Contact the CHS Counseling Office at 219-983-3730   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   12th Annual Northwest Regional Sheriff's Camp Sheriff Balon is announcing the dates and open application for its 12th Annual Northwest Regional Sheriff’s Camp for 2026! This year’s camp will be for first-time campers. Dates are August 4-6 at the Indiana Dunes State Park from 8:00 a.m.-2:45 p.m. The cost of the camp is $50.00 per camper. Camp Application & Camp Waiver For more information, click on the image to the left to view the post on DSC's Community Opportunities page.   CHS Summer Learn To Swim Lessons Sign up now for the CHS Swim Team Learn To Swim Summer Program 2026. CHS Trojan Summer Swim Camp Learn from the best. Train, race and have fun with the CHS Swim Team! This camp is for students in Grades K-3 and Grades 4-6. Register by May 22   Chesterton Soccer Summer Camp 2026 Chesterton Soccer will offer Summer Camp instruction for students in Pre-K-8th grade on July 20-23. The camp will be divided into three different age groups. Click the link to view the flyer. Click on the image above to register. Chesterton Summer Tennis Camp 2026 Duneland Summer Tennis Camp players from ages PreK - 9th grade will receive instruction on all aspects of the tennis game from coach Kyle Prow, Liberty and Westchester Middle School Tennis coaches, as well as the Chesterton High School Boys and Girls Tennis players. Click on the image above to register.   Chesterton Girls Basketball 2026 Summer Programs - ALL Levels (Click the image above to enlarge Program Event Guide) Girls Basketball has officially announced its 2026 Chesterton Girls Basketball Summer Program opportunities for all incoming 1st–12th grade players! This summer program is designed to help players continue building their skills, confidence, basketball IQ, teamwork, and overall love for the game while staying connected with the Trojan Basketball family throughout the offseason. Please take time to carefully review the Summer Program Event Guide for your player’s incoming grade level. The guide includes dates, times, locations, and important participation details for each opportunity offered this summer. We are also excited to launch the Trojan Sharp Shooting Club for all age levels this summer! Players will track made shots and repetitions while competing for incentives, recognition, leaderboards, social media shout-outs, and recognition during a high school home game. Registration and additional information can be found at: https://www.chestertongirlsbasketball.org/camps-leagues-training-registration Trojan Volleyball Camp for Grades 4-8 Chesterton High School is excited to announce its Trojan Volleyball Camp for 2026. The Chesterton Volleyball Program is excited to work with and provide a great experience for future Trojans in grades 4-8. To register, click on the image above or this registration link. For more information contact Lindsay Nibert at lnibert@duneland.k12.in.us   Boys Summer Basketball Camp Chesterton Boys' Basketball is excited to announce its Chesterton Boys' Summer Basketball Camp for 2026. We look forward to continuing to work toward building championships with our future players this summer. For more information contact murban@duneland.k12.in.us Register at https://www.chestertonbasketball.com/ or click the image at the left. Chesterton Football Camps Links for more information: Little Trojan Football Camp Grades 5-8 Position Skill Camps Grades 6-8 Summer Flag League   CHS Alumni Reunions CLASS of 2006: 20-Year Reunion The Chesterton High School Class of 2006 will host their 20-year reunion at the Dunes Pavilion in Chesterton on Saturday, July 18 from 6:00-9:00 PM. For more information, click on the links below: LINK TO TICKETS FACEBOOK GROUP TO JOIN CONTACT FORM FOR FUTURE REUNIONS CLASS of 1986: 40-Year Reunion Time to catch up, laugh, and relive the good old days with the Class of 1986 crew! The class is including anyone from classes of 1983-1989 as well at the Class of 1986 40th High School Reunion The 40th reunion of the Class of 1986 will be hosted at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and Pavilion on August 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM CST Come catch up, share memories, and have a blast with old friends. Don’t miss out on this special night to reconnect and celebrate together! Link for more information and tickets     LINKS FOR PARENTS   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Click the link or image above to view or print this current school year's 2025-2026 DSC Calendar. DSC 2026-2027 School Year Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link or image above to view or print next school year's 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below). Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   NorthShore School Clinic - Summer Hours The DSC NorthShore Health Center is located at 601 W Morgan Avenue at Door #4. Northshore partners with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for Duneland School child during school hours. Click on the image at left to view the flyer. Summer Hours: June 1 - August 7 Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Friday Closed Services available for both students and staff in-person or telehealth   Employment Opportunities Join the DSC Team! Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1&   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at: https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/   DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Instagram: dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, May 21 2026

DuneNews 5/14/26

May 14, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 36   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Senior Honors Night Chesterton High School hosted the annual Senior Honors Night on Monday, May 11, 2026 in the CHS Auditorium. Dozens of students were honored with a variety of awards and scholarships. Department Awards Department awards went to: Sophia Sylvester, Business; Alexia Smith, Business Technology; Han Phan, Career Exploration: Internship; Ryder Eppolito, Career Exploration: Work Study; Dexter Kehle, English; Presley Rhyne, Family and Consumer Science; George Bernth, Industrial Technology; Lauren Kroft, International Baccalaureate; World Language: French - Isabel Durkin, German - Cecelia Post, Japanese - Emily Ponce, Spanish - Emery McKiddy; Jany Zhang, Mathematics; Ella Bolinger, Music; Colin Kellogg, Physical Education; Elizabeth Tatone, Science; Baylee Parrott, Social Studies; Wyatt Fleming, Special Education; Jamie Roser, Visual Arts; Kennedi Bradley and Nathan Vaughn, Athletes of the Year. US Military Cords were presented to Cody Brewer (US Army), William Brizendine (US Marines), Ava Buenaventura (US Navy ROTC), Dominick Chasko (US Marines), Michael Gaddis (US Army), Bryce Judy (US Army National Guard), Grayson Nagel (US Air National Guard), Ryker Rudd (US Army), Shisanupong Srikhao (US Navy), and Ezrah Walsh (US Coast Guard). IB Stoles were earned by Isabel Durkin, Lauren Kroft, Wolfgang Lutterman, Avey Ricks. Indiana College Cords were earned by Suzanne Adent, Alexander Amaya, Clayton Ames, Lucas Anderson, Ashley Bafia, Aubrey Bamber, Andrew Barich, Troy Barrett, Kassandra Becker, Olivia Belcher, Jacob Bell, Logan Booth, Dylan Bradford, William Bradford, Kenedi Bradley, Annabell Bulger, Matteah Burgeson, Noah Burke, Kennedy Burkhart, Blake Cacini, Logan Chestovich, Ava Chiesi, Ashley Christenson, Lily Cibak, Lorna Connor, Marian Cook, Ava Cunningham, Robert Czarniecki, Hailey Davila, Holly Decker, Claire Demmon, Lucas DeVore, Peyton Ello, Turner Enderle, Paige Engels, Alice Fancher, Jonus Fierro, Salina Ford, Archibald Gallup, Drake Gardiner, Andrew Goveia, Liam Gray, Alexa Jaworski, Elliana Johnson, Bryce Judy, MacKenzie Kania, Phoebe Kantowski, Luke Kisala, Caden Koedyker, Henrik Koehnen, Adam Leneave, Peyton Lessard, Chloe Link, Brianna Manning, Zachary Marchese, Elaina Markwart, Maddox McKinney, Anna Miles, Fletcher Miller, Addison Mitchell, Jacob Mitcheltree, Eva Montes, Gracie Moore, William Morgan, Peyton Moskalick, Kaylin O'Daniel, Laylani Ortiz, Braxton Ozug, Cameron Pace, Lilyanne Peschke, Natalie Pieters, Logan Pokorney, Cecilia Post, Rylin Rietman, Oliva Roach, William Roberson, Molly Roberts, Madison Roberts, Kassidy Robinson, Audrey Rudzinski, Lucy Rutkowski, Hazel Santos, Allyson Schmitt, Caden Schneider, Isaac Seifrig, Laney Sensibaugh, Austin Shockley-Hahn, Logan Smeltzer, Alexia Smith, Amelia Smith, Lukas Sorgic, Lucelia Staresina, Madelyn Street, Grayson Strickland, Raymond Stringham, Cal Stuckert, Emileigh Stueber, Sophia Slyvester, Peyton Tarnowski, Ella Taylor, Devin Throw, Marisella Tonelli, Karina Vasquez, Nathan Vaughn, Mackenzie Vogwill, Ezrah Walsh, Keith Ward, Jackson Whalen, Olyvia Whalen, Aubree Williams, Brooke Williams, Brooke Wiseman, Calahan Wisniewski   Art Achievement Certificates were awarded to Natalia Balasz, Isabel Bartkus, Mila Beale, Ireland Carnahan, Stacy Clark, Calypso Dutro, Kitt Freites, Polly Frye, Lillian Hardwick, Jack Hinman, Hailey Humann, Sebastian Kozaczka, Lillian Koziczynski, Lillian Lemmons, Kaylee Lesher, Cory Lyon, Addison Mason, Cecilia Post, Lincoln Rhoda, Avey Ricks, Jamie Roser, Karina Vasquez, Leila Watson, Malaina White, Caleb Zieman Business certificates were awarded to Andrew Barich, Marian Cook, Brooks Culpepper, Claire Demmon, Raymond Hundt, Bryce Judy, MacKenzie Kania, Colin Kellogg, Sebastian Kozaczka, Nicholas Lackey, Zachary Marchese, Tyler McKee, Eddie Melton, Jacob Mitcheltree, Samuel Neal, William Roberson, Luke Robertson, Logan Smeltzer, Aiden Sweet, Sophia Sylvester, Gage Teso, Christian Todd, Luke Vaughn, Justin Zavaleta Perez FACS Certificates were awarded to Clayton Ames, Matteah Burgeson, Abigail Carper, Hailey Davila, Andre Escobedo, Hannah Florian, Kileigh Flynn, Isabella Martin, Presley Rhyne, Caitlyn Robison, and Lauren Rubino. Special Awards MILITARY AWARDS Receiving Military awards were, front row, left to right, Ava Buenaventura (US Navy ROTC), William Brizendine (US Marines), Ezrah Walsh (US Coast Guard), and Bryce Judy (US Army National Guard). Absent from photo is Cody Brewer (US Army), Dominick Chasko (US Marines), Michael Gaddis (US Army), Grayson Nagel (US Air National Guard), Ryker Rudd (US Army), and Shisanupong Srikhao (US Navy). Back row, presenters CHS teacher Dr. Robert Martino and Tricia Burns, Delta Theta Tau. DUNELAND EDUCATION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS Receiving Duneland Education Foundation (DEF) were front row, left to right, Jany Zhang - Duneland United Churches Resale Scholarship and Vinay Suman Das Foundation Scholarship; Emery McKiddy - Vinay Suman Das Foundation Scholarship; Natalie Fry - Dr. Dan Keilman Memorial Scholarship; Isabelle Cain - Adam D. Laughner Memorial Kindness Scholarship; Lila Miller - Dunes Learning Center Scholarship; Audrey Bamber - Kathryn Pokorny Memorial Soccer Scholarship; and and Mara Huneryager - Kathryn Pokorny Memorial General Scholarship. Back row, presenters Pranati Bansal, Vinay Suman Das Foundation; Garland Laughner, Adam D. Laughner Memorial Kindness; and Meg McCarel, DEF Memorial Scholarships. Absent from photo is recipient Madison Boatright - Ralph D. Ayres Memorial Educational Scholarship. MEMORIAL and COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS Receiving Memorial Award Scholarships were, front row, left to right, Kassandra Becker - Delta Theta Tau Joann Goldman Memorial; Zarek Sierazy - Field Station Cooperative Preschool Liz Scott Memorial and Porter County Community Foundation Scholarships; Elliot Thompson - Jackson Pearson Memorial Scholarship; Marian Cook and Elliana Johnson - Mitchell A. Winey Memorial Scholarship; Katherine Newbanks - Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. Back row, presenters Tricia Burns - Delta Theta Tau Joann Goldman Memorial, Carmen Thomas - Field Station Cooperative Preschool Liz Scott Memorial, Mark Babcock - Mitchell A. Winey Memorial, and scholarship recipients Ella Bolinger, Paige Engels and Jany Zhang - Porter County Community Foundation Scholarship.  COMMUNITY AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS TOP PHOTO, Recipients of community scholarships were, front row, left to right, Mara Huneryager and Caramia Larimer - Chesterton-Porter Rotary Dirk E. Baer Scholarship; Zarek Sierazy - Chesterton-Porter Rotary George Krivisky and Elks Lodge 500 Most Valuable Student Scholarships; Jany Zhang - Chesterton-Porter Rotary George Krivisky Scholarship; Devin Throw - Chesterton-Porter Rotary William H. Carmichael Scholarship; Luke Kisala - Chesterton Lions Club Scholarship; Liam Gray and Noah Haubold - Jim and Betty Dye Scholarship. Back row, scholarship presenters Bill Ellis, Chesterton Lions Club; Robert McCasland, Elks Lodge; and recipients, Colin Kellogg, Elaina Markwart, Patrick Mochen, Keith Ward and Allison Van Kley - Jim and Betty Dye Scholarship. BOTTOM PHOTO: Additional recipients of community awards and scholarships were, front row, left to right, Molly Roberts - Daughters of the American Revolution Outstanding Senior Award; MacKenzie Kania - Sons of the American Revolution Bronze Good Citizen Award and Manuzzi Family Business/Trade Scholarship (business/trade); Devin Throw - Sons of the American Revolution Bronze Good Citizen and Porter-Starke Impact Awards; Paige Engels - Kappa Kappa Kappa Scholarship; Zarek Sierazy - Kappa Kappa Kappa Scholarship and Dr. Forchetti Scholarship; and Jany Zhang - Kappa Kappa Kappa and Dr. Forchetti Scholarships. Back row, presenters Tacy Borgman - Daughters of the American Revolution; Wayne Carr - Sons of the American Revolution; and student recipients Caramia Larimer - Manuzzi Family Music Scholarship; Kaily Koch and Gretta McCrovitz - Dr. Forchetti Scholarship; and Ella Taylor - Mitchell Sterling Scholarship. Absent from photo is Maeci Mullet - Porter-Starke Impact Award. SCHOOL AND PTO SCHOLARSHIPS TOP PHOTO, Recipients of School and PTO scholarships were, front row, left to right, Mara Huneryager, Zarek Sierazy, Devin Throw and Jany Zhang - CHS Alumni Association Scholarship; Audrey Ruzinski - Brummitt Elementary PTO Scholarship; Logan Chestovich and Lucy Rutkowski - Duneland Teachers' Scholarship. Back row, presenter Ryan Day - CHS Alumni Association and student recipients Laney Sensibaugh - Duneland Teachers’ Scholarship; William Morgan - Chesterton Robotics Boosters Scholarship, Keith Ward - Duneland Teachers’ Scholarship and Chesterton Robotics Boosters Scholarship; Elizabeth Tatone - Karen Donley Memorial Yost Alumni Scholarship; Raymond Hundt and MacKenzie Kania - Chesterton Robotics Boosters Scholarship and presenter Kerry Hyde - Chesterton Robotics Boosters. Absent from photo is Chevy Grcich - Brummitt Elementary PTO Scholarship. BOTTOM PHOTO, Receiving school and Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) scholarships were, front, left to right, Jany Zhang - Bailly Elementary PTO and National Honor Society Scholarship; MacKenzie Kania - National Honor Society Scholarship; Cecilia Post - Christel Helmchen GAPP Scholarship; Logan Chestovich and Mara Huneryager - Liberty Elementary PTO Scholarship; and Abigail Carper - Peer Leader Scholarship. Back row, recipients Hannah Florian, Kileigh Flynn, Jacob Mitcheltree, Karleigh Pawlyszyn, Jackson Coppinger - Peer Leader Scholarship; and Lauren Kroft - Westchester Intermediate PTO. Absent from photo is Hailey Davila and Emileigh Stueber - Peer Leader Scholarship.   WDSO Awards Night Above, front row, left to right, James Peshke, Community Outreach; Aaron White, Training and Music; Lacei Kuckuck, Community Outreach; Aly Malinovsky, News; Aubrey Leidolf, Program Director; Hannah Welch, Community Outreach; Ria Kashyap, News; Sybilla Vargas, Community Outreach. Back row, Levi McDowell, Music and Comminity Outreach; Bear Goodman, Music; Amare Anderson, Program Director; Grace Hodsden, Sports; and Jamie Hodsden, Training. Not pictured is the sports department which will be made up of Ethan Gonzales, Noah Softko, TJ Ray and Talan Slack, and Charles Lambersie, Music Department. WDSO hosted its annual awards/staff appreciation night last week and announced the 2026-2027 WDSO Staff. Students received awards related to their skills and accomplishments. Among other awards received were: Senior Clarie Demmon-Most Outstanding DJ, Freshmen Grace Hodsden- Emerging Leadership Award, Junior Amare Anderson-Best On-Air Personality, Freshman Aaron White-Best New DJ. Awards night was hosted by Senior Program Directors Ella Tonelli and Claire Demmon.   WMS Shines at Junior Academic Super Bowl Competition Students from Westchester Middle School proudly represented their school at the Regional and State Academic Super Bowl competition, showcasing their knowledge, dedication, and teamwork across multiple subject areas. At the regional competition, WMS delivered an outstanding performance. The Science team earned a 1st place finish, demonstrating exceptional understanding and preparation. The Math team followed with an impressive 2nd place, while the Interdisciplinary team secured 3rd place honors. The English team competed with determination and grit, finishing 4th, and the History team rounded out the competition with a 5th place finish. At the state level, WMS continued to compete at a high level among some of the best teams in Indiana. The Math team achieved an excellent 7th place finish in the state, while the Science team came in 11th place, just narrowly missing a top ten placement at the state. Their performances reflect both the competitiveness of the field and the strength of WMS students’ preparation and perseverance. Each team’s performance reflects the countless hours of studying, practicing, and collaborating in preparation for this challenging event. Students were tasked with mastering complex material and working together under pressure, skills that extend far beyond the competition itself. Westchester Middle School is incredibly proud of all participants for their commitment, perseverance, and positive representation of the school community. Their hard work and dedication truly paid off, and they should be celebrated for their accomplishments at both the regional and state levels. WMS Academic Super Bowl team members: MATH - Ben Bryak, Robert Hundt, Matt Loyer, Ivan Lule and Luke Mueller SCIENCE - Robert Hundt, Matt Loyer, James McKenna, Nathan Seaman, and Ellie Scharp ENGLISH - Jaelynn Ray, Maiya Reed, Graison Reithel, Eloise Wilson, and Lexie Colella HISTORY - Ben Bryak, James McKenna, Eloise Wilson, Brenna Dunlap, and William Crots INTERDISCIPLINARY - Ben Bryak, Robert Hundt, Matt Loyer, James McKenna, Ellie Scharp, Brenna Dunlap, and Lexie Colella   Robotics teams attend Worlds Westchester Middle School had a fantastic run at the 2026 Robotics World Championship in St. Louis this weekend! 800 teams from 33 different countries competed for the title of World Champion. Lucas Blankenship, Cody Budny, Robert Hundt, and Nathan Menard's combined efforts earned them 57th in the Innovate division! Their perseverance and determination carried them throughout the 2025-2026 season. They have earned their title as being the first WMS team to make it to Worlds! Duneland is proud to be represented by the Convader Bots on the world stage! Great job! This team is not finished, as they have already started planning their robot's design for next year's game!  Chesterton High School Team 21408E had an excellent experience at the VEX Robotics World Championship last Tuesday through Friday. Attending were William Morgan, Keith Ward, and Ray Hundt, also on the team but unable to attend was Mackenzie Kania. These seniors have been robotics teammates since 5th grade and this was a great culmination of their robotics experiences at Duneland Schools. They competed alongside over 850 teams from over 30 countries and finished at 27 of 87 teams in their division narrowly missing out on a spot in the division finals.  These students represented CHS and Duneland Schools with determination, grit, and great attitudes and we are proud of what they have accomplished.   CHS Organizational Contest Results Congratulations to the two CHS Music ensembles for their Gold winning performances on the weekend of April 23 at ISSMA Organizational Contest. The groups traveled to Penn High School where they performed their prepared pieces, as well as put their sight-reading skills to the test. The groups were under the direction of Jonathan Flodder and Brian Grenier. Congratulations to the Advanced Orchestra, who earned a Gold Rating “With Distinction”, and a Gold rating in Sight Reading. Members of the Advanced Orchestra include: Michael Banowetz, Colton Beckwith, Ella Bolinger, Avi Burke, Jeremy Canfield, Eva Capodice, Carly Decker, Abigail Demsich, Lena Finck, Mackenzie Griffith, Scarlet Hall, Autumn Higgins, Katherine Jegen, Ria Kashyap, Lily Linsemeyer, Victoria Manning, Allison Marcotte, Hunter Mayer, Katherine Meyer, Maeci Mullet, Kaylin O'Daniel, Bailey Pikula, Declan Scott, Leland Skube, Eva Solmos, Chloe Thurman, Ella Tokarchuck, Mia Tsugawa, Alexander Vazquez, Daniel Vidt, Hannah Welch, Kayla Willis, Caylee Wilson, and Lauren Yarosz. The Symphonic Band achieved a Gold rating in performance and a Gold rating in sight-reading. Members of the Symphonic Band include: Jacob Anderson, Clara Arizzi, Leonardo Atkins, Lillie Bodie, Ryan Bradford, Chase Brum, Elizabeth Bugajski, Logan Bullard, Samuel Carper, Melody Chapman, Maxine Clark, Londyn Cohen, Saul Coronado, Eleanor Dado, James Drury, Samantha Duncan, Kaysen Earle, Uriah Elliott-Halinski, Jayla Elmore, Jayden Ezra, Ian Fadell, Abiageal Feero, Matzen Finck, Ava Finke, Isabella Freeman, Scarlette Gaulke, Graciela Gonzalez Greenman, Olivia Goodwin, Lilly Gumulauski, Layne Gustin, Herschel Hardwick, James Hobbs, V, Rosemary Hundt, Logan Hutchinson, Noah Hyde, Emily Jenkins, Harley Kapitan, Andrew Kazmierczak, Aiden Kirk, Kai Kniola, Lily Koppers, Miki Kresal, Izabell Krieg, Payton Kroslack, Leah Krzan, Lacei Kuckuck, Marabella Lafata, Joshua Lahaie, Talan Lipka, Landen Longfellow-Pedraza, Allison Lopez, Aubrey Lorenz, Benjamin Malinovsky, Kaelyn Marin, Addison Matthews, Rowan Mayes, Taylor Mayle, Audrina Mccance, Andrew Mcclelland, Audrey Mcdowell, Bailiee Metz, Samantha Mills, Vincent Mueller, Carter Nadratowski, Mia Navardauskas, Natalie Newman, William Newman, Juan Nieves III, Kenzie O'Daniel, Lauren Orsburn, Riley Pacilio, Nathanael Palmer, Theron Papachronis, Robert Parks, James Peschke, Nathaniel Regan, Reagan Rex, Te'Ari Reynolds, Alise Rodriguez, Amiya Roedel, Calvin Rossi, Emmaline Salentine, Tyler Santiago, Madelynn Scharp, Levi Schott, Xander Sierazy, Katelyn Sim, Maverik Simmons, Hunter Smith, Alec Soblotne, Salvador Stetler, Noah Torres, Madelyn Welborn, Aaron White, and Natalie Williams.   Show Choir Awards Night Above, CHS Show Choir students who received Outstanding Awards On Tuesday, April 28, students from Chesterton High School’s Show Choirs were honored for their outstanding achievements and performances during the spring season. After traveling to four states, the groups came home with an impressive array of top awards this season including winning Solo Competitions and Best Band Awards. The students, parents, and staff consistently put forth great effort and were frequently rewarded with supplementary awards such as Best Show Design, Best Choreography, and Best Crew. Honors for this year’s Show Choir members include: Most Improved Freshmen: Kaylie Balon and Michael Williams Most Improved Sophomores: Talan Lipka and Madalyn Vickers Most Improved Juniors: Valeria Chavez and Maddie Dailey Most Improved Seniors: Irene Camacho and Marian Cook Most Improved The Business Member: Rylan Fields Outstanding Vocal Contribution, Drifters: Mia Jakich and Anna Holmes Outstanding Vocal Contribution, Sandpipers: Karleigh Pawlyszyn and Kassidy Robinson Outstanding Visual Contribution, Drifters: Emme Curran and Maddie Prince Outstanding Visual Contribution, Sandpipers: Caramia Larimer and Jeremy Schmidt Outstanding Instrumental Contribution: Liam Gray Exceptional Membership, Drifters: Ireland Carnahan, Ava Cunningham, Kayla Perez, Mackenzie Vogwill, and Emma Wahl  Exceptional Membership, Sandpipers: Porter Fowler, Max Prince, Ella Taylor, and Aubree Williams Exceptional Membership, The Business: JJ Ames Outstanding Overall Contribution, Drifters: Hannah Loving Outstanding Overall Contribution, Sandpipers: Samuel Smith Outstanding Overall Contribution, The Business: Rowen Love Member of the Year, Drifters: Isabelle Cain Member of the Year, Sandpipers: Ava Cunningham Member of the Year, The Business: Andria White Spirit of Show Choir Award: Mara Huneryager Section Leaders: Isabelle Cain, Anna Holmes, Mia Jakich, Max Prince, Samuel Smith, Ella Taylor, and Aubree Williams Dance Captains: Ireland Carnahan, Ava Cunningham, Porter Fowler, Mia Larimer, Kayla Perez, Maddie Prince, Jeremy Schmidt, and Mackenzie Vogwill Program Assistants: Mara Huneryager and Ellie Wilcox Dynamic Double: Emmersyn Curran (Drifters & Sandpipers), Ava Cunningham (Drifters & Sandpipers), Hannah Loving (Drifters & Sandpipers) Senior Recognition: JJ Ames (The Business), Cody Brewer (The Business), Isabelle Cain, Irene Camacho, Ireland Carnahan, Jolie Cleveland, Marian Cook, Jackson Coppinger, Ava Cunningham, Rylan Fields (The Business), Liam Gray (The Business), Lilly Hardwick (The Business), Sophia Higgins, Mara Huneryager, Gianna Iovino, Lillian Koziczynski, Mia Larimer, Will Liles (The Business), Rowen Love (The Business), Lila Miller, Karleigh Pawlyszyn, Kassidy Robinson, Ella Taylor, Mackenzie Vogwill, Tiara Wilkerson (The Business), and Aubree Williams (Sandpipers &The Business).   LIS Young Citizenship Award The Duneland Exchange Club (DEC) recently presented Caleb Curiel of Liberty Intermediate School with the Young Citizenship award. This award is given to a student who is an all-around good citizen. The club presents this award to one fourth grade student at each of the five Duneland elementary schools, at the sixth grade level at each of the intermediate schools and at the eighth grade level at each of the middle schools and NWI Online School. Pictured left to right: teacher Angie Nelson; DEC presenters Bob Pawlik and Suzanne Mahaffey; teacher Tim Ray; Principal Kelly Hardwicke; grandparents Linda and Ken Mackowiak; mother Katie Curiel; and teachers Troy Young, Marissa Krutz, and Jamie Ellis.   LMS Band Program awarded ISSMA All-Music Award Above, left to right, Mr. Vince Arizzi, Arnaa Saxena (8), C.C. Fryer (7), Vincent Gast (7), and Luke Thomas (8). The Liberty Middle School Band program has been awarded the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) All-Music Award for the 2025-2026 school year. The ISSMA All-Music Award is given to music programs that perform well enough to receive gold ratings in every sanctioned ISSMA event throughout the school year, as well as additional Solo & Ensemble success. This requires the students to be very active and consistently performing at a high level. The award is meant to reward schools for offering their students a well-rounded music education, a goal of every music department, according to Vince Arizzi, LMS Band Director and Director of Music Education for the Duneland School Corporation. "We work very hard to provide our students with many opportunities for performance each year,” said Arizzi. “Our music teachers give them the tools to be successful, and I really think the LMS Band students rose to the occasion this year!"   LMS/WMS Music Students Perform at Six Flags LMS music students On May 2, the Liberty and Westchester 8th grade choir, band and orchestra participated in the Music in the Parks competition at Six Flags Great America. Both groups competed against other schools from across the Great Lakes region. All the Liberty ensembles earned superior ratings from the judges. They also placed first in their respective divisions and each group earned overall Grand Champion. The Westchester WMS Band, Orchestra and Choir placed first in division, and both the Orchestra and Choir earned Grand Champion. WMS music students   2026-2027 School Year Registration ONLINE REGISTRATION for the 2026-2027 school year is now open so that ALL DSC students are registered by the end of the 2025-2026 school year. To register your children online visit: Parent Access Portal through Skyward. Thank you for your time in reviewing and editing this vital information regarding your student(s) for the schools. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. NEW FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR: PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, parents and guardians will be required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) that must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-out for CHS students. The PIN serves as an added layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FEES: In accordance with Indiana Code, Duneland School Corporation does not charge fees for required curricular materials. Textbooks, instructional software, and other resources necessary for course completion are funded through state reimbursement and/or local school funds. For grades K-4, a student supply fee will be charged to cover personal student supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, and similar items. Once schedules are finalized at the beginning of the school year for grades 5-12, specific course and supply fees will be calculated.  Fees for all grades K-12 will be available for collection through Skyward’s Family Access on September 14, 2026. A reminder notification will be sent once the payment window opens.   Additional fees may apply if textbooks, library materials, or school-issued devices are lost or damaged.    DSC Summer School 2026 Registration Summer School Registration Summer School will consist of two sessions: Session 1 from June 5 - 26, 2026 (with no class on June 19, 2026)  Grades PK - 7 and 8 -12 Session 2 from July 6- 25, 2026. Grades 8 -12 Registration? Registration for Summer School DSC 2026 opened on Monday, March 30. Families will be able to register their student(s) through their Skyward Family Access account. For directions on how to register your child please follow the links below based on the current grade level of your student. Instructions for Grades K -7 - This Registration now closed Instructions for Grades 8-12 - Registration Opens March 30, 2026 - closes the last week of May Note: Students in Grades 8-12, who are interested in taking PE should review the additional information on the Flex PE Credit and reduced diploma requirements prior to registering. Location: Grades PreK - 7 Summer School will take place at Liberty Elementary School from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm in Session 1 only. Grades 8 -12 Summer School will take place at Chesterton High School from 7:30 am -12:55 pm for both Session 1 and 2 KinderCamp: Separate invitations will be provided for families interested in KinderCamp, a PreKindergarten Program. Need Skyward Support? If you need support in registering for summer school within the Skyward Arena Scheduling please call your child’s school. Questions? Please contact the following: Grades PreK - 7 - Call the Department of Teaching and Learning at 219-983-3656 Grades 8-12 - Contact the CHS Counseling Office at 219-983-3730   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   FRIDAY: CHS Choirs SPRING REVUE It's almost time for the Chesterton High School Choirs annual Spring Revue Concert where we celebrate our incredible year of choral music by performing fun songs, featuring some soloists, identifying and celebrating our seniors and more! Friday, May 15 at 6:30 PM in the Chesterton High School Auditorium Tickets are On Sale now via the link below. Adults $10 online/$12 at the door Students & Seniors $8 online/$10 at the door All seating is reserved. Click on the image above to reserve your seats FRIDAY: CHS Varsity Gymnastics Call Out / Informational Meeting Chesterton High School Varsity Gymnastics will host a Call Out / Informational Meeting for girls who will be in grades 9-12 for the 2026-2027 school year on Friday, May 15 at the Bailly Elementary Fieldhouse Door 17 at 5:00 p.m.   SUNDAY! WDSO 88.3 FM Celebrates 50 Years with Community Open House and Anniversary Party WDSO 88.3 FM is proud to celebrate five decades of community radio with a special 50th Anniversary Open House and Evening Celebration on Sunday, May 17, 2026. The station invites alumni, current members, and the broader community to join in honoring this milestone. The celebration will begin with an Open House from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Chesterton High School, located at 2125 South 11th Street in Chesterton. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the station, connect with past and present staff members, and learn more about WDSO’s history and ongoing impact as a local voice in Northwest Indiana. Following the open house, festivities will continue with a 50th Anniversary Party from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Chesterton Moose Lodge, 602 Broadway, Chesterton, IN. The evening event will feature live music from Janky Limo, Ohh Deveraux!, and Chester Brown, with sound support generously contributed by Sanders Indiana Hardware and Dave Weiandt. A suggested donation of $5–$10 is appreciated for the evening event.   “This event celebrates not only the longevity of WDSO, but the incredible community that has supported and shaped it over the past 50 years,” said Emily Fletcher, Operations Manager. “We’re excited to bring together generations of listeners, volunteers, and supporters to honor WDSO's legacy.” Both events are open to the public and welcome attendees of all ages. Whether you were part of WDSO in the past, are an avid supporter, or are just curious about your local station, consider stopping by to celebrate all things WDSO.  Contact the station at 219-983-3777, or send WDSO a message on Facebook for any questions.    CHS Summer Learn To Swim Lessons Sign up now for the CHS Swim Team Learn To Swim Summer Program 2026. CHS Trojan Summer Swim Camp Learn from the best. Train, race and have fun with the CHS Swim Team! This camp is for students in Grades K-3 and Grades 4-6. Register by May 22   Chesterton Soccer Summer. Camp 2026 Chesterton Soccer will offer Summer Camp instruction for students in Pre-K-8th grade on July 20-23. The camp will be divided into three different age groups. Click the link to view the flyer. Click on the image above to register. WEDNESDAY: Donate While You Dine at Culver's for Chesterton Orchestra Boosters Visit the Culver’s of Chesterton on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 and we will donate 10% of sales to Chesterton Orchestra Boosters.    Chesterton Girls Basketball 2026 Summer Programs - ALL Levels (Click the image above to enlarge Program Event Guide) Girls Basketball has officially announced its 2026 Chesterton Girls Basketball Summer Program opportunities for all incoming 1st–12th grade players! This summer program is designed to help players continue building their skills, confidence, basketball IQ, teamwork, and overall love for the game while staying connected with the Trojan Basketball family throughout the offseason. Please take time to carefully review the Summer Program Event Guide for your player’s incoming grade level. The guide includes dates, times, locations, and important participation details for each opportunity offered this summer. We are also excited to launch the Trojan Sharp Shooting Club for all age levels this summer! Players will track made shots and repetitions while competing for incentives, recognition, leaderboards, social media shout-outs, and recognition during a high school home game. Registration and additional information can be found at: https://www.chestertongirlsbasketball.org/camps-leagues-training-registration Trojan Volleyball Camp for Grades 4-8 Chesterton High School is excited to announce its Trojan Volleyball Camp for 2026. The Chesterton Volleyball Program is excited to work with and provide a great experience for future Trojans in grades 4-8. To register, click on the image above or this registration link. For more information contact Lindsay Nibert at lnibert@duneland.k12.in.us   Boys Summer Basketball Camp Chesterton Boys' Basketball is excited to announce its Chesterton Boys' Summer Basketball Camp for 2026. We look forward to continuing to work toward building championships with our future players this summer. For more information contact murban@duneland.k12.in.us Register at https://www.chestertonbasketball.com/ or click the image at the left. Chesterton Football Camps Links for more information: Little Trojan Football Camp Grades 5-8 Position Skill Camps Grades 6-8 Summer Flag League   PCES to host final SEPAC Community Meeting Porter County Education Services will host their final SEPAC CommUNITY meeting of the 2025-2026 school year entitled, "Don't Agree with the IEP? Now What?", on Wednesday, May 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. at PCACS, 1005 N Campbell St. in Valparaiso. These meeting are for parents who have a child with an IEP, or if they are in the initial IEP evaluation stages.   CHS Alumni Reunions CLASS of 2006: 20-Year Reunion The Chesterton High School Class of 2006 will host their 20-year reunion at the Dunes Pavilion in Chesterton on Saturday, July 18 from 6:00-9:00 PM. For more information, click on the links below: LINK TO TICKETS FACEBOOK GROUP TO JOIN CONTACT FORM FOR FUTURE REUNIONS CLASS of 1986: 40-Year Reunion Time to catch up, laugh, and relive the good old days with the Class of 1986 crew! The class is including anyone from classes of 1983-1989 as well at the Class of 1986 40th High School Reunion The 40th reunion of the Class of 1986 will be hosted at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and Pavilion on August 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM CST Come catch up, share memories, and have a blast with old friends. Don’t miss out on this special night to reconnect and celebrate together! Link for more information and tickets     LINKS FOR PARENTS   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Click the link or image above to view or print this current school year's 2025-2026 DSC Calendar. DSC 2026-2027 School Year Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link or image above to view or print next school year's 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below). Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   NorthShore School Clinic The DSC NorthShore Health Center is located at 601 W Morgan Avenue at Door #4. Northshore partners with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for Duneland School child during school hours. Click on the image at left to view the flyer.   Employment Opportunities Join the DSC Team! Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1&   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at: https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/   DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Instagram: dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, May 14 2026

DuneNews 4/23/26

April 23, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 35   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS CHS Club exceeds fundraising goal The CHS Philathropy Club hosted their annual Dance Marathon this past Friday evening surpassing their goal of $15,000 by over $5,000. Throughout the year, club members raised funds through individual fundraising pages, bake sales, t-shirt sales, and more raising just just over $20,000 for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. "Seeing them go well beyond their goal says a lot about their effort and commitment," said club sponsor Adam Schultz. "I am incredibly proud of this group. They put in a lot of time and energy, and it showed."   ISSMA Organizational Contest Congratulations to the three CHS Music ensembles for their Gold winning performances last weekend at ISSMA Organizational Contest. The groups traveled to Kankakee Valley High School where they performed their prepared pieces, as well as put their sight-reading skills to the test. The groups were under the direction of Brian Grenier and Kristin Morris, with piano accompaniment by Sharon Angelina. The combined Treble Voiced Ensemble, consisting of Bel Canto & Drifters, earned a Gold with Distinction rating and a Gold in sight-reading (the top award able to be earned). To earn the With Distinction Award, groups have to get golds from all four judges, and those gold ratings also have to be high. Additionally, the group competed in the most difficult level, Group 1 and had the BEST scores in the STATE that weekend for a Univoiced Choir. Members include: Anaya Alioto, Kaylie Balon, Isabella Bigman, Mallory Billings, Caitlin Brosas, Elizabeth Bugajski, Skylar Burnson, Isabelle Cain, Irene Camacho, Ireland Carnahan, Nevaeh Carr, Valeria Chavez, Emily Clark, Madysan Clark, Jolie Cleveland, Annaliese Coppler, Lily Costello, Ava Cunningham, Emmersynn Curran, Allison Dale, Addison Deal, Julia DePew, Kendall Doede, Lillian Escobar, Quinn Frey, Natalie Gallo, Lily Grish, Callie Harding, Chloe Herbert, Anna Holmes, Taylor House, Emily Ilges, Mia Jakich, Lilleana Jensen, Lily Koppers, Lillian Koziczynski, Alexa Kras, Payton Kroslack, Eleanor Lewis, Annalise Lewis, Hannah Loving, Macey Mauke, Morgan Millis, Julia Mobley, Aviana Murray, Olivia Muzzalupo, Rayna Naccarato, Saniah Newcome, Layla Niewiadomski, Sophia Ontiveros, Kayla Perez, Karoline Price, Madeline Prince, Alexi Prybylla, Arabella Purser, Kayla Rees, Whitney Reyna, Elena Rosado, Amelia Santiago, Aditi Shiggavi, Morgan Steele, Peyton Tratta, Madalyn Vickers, Mackenzie Vogwill, Emma Wahl, Chloe Watkins, Taryn Wellensiek, Ellie Wilcox, and Coralei Zeilstra. The combined Mixed Voiced Ensemble, consisting of Camerata & Sandpipers, earned a Gold with Distinction rating and a Gold in sight-reading. The group was within two points of a perfect score. The ensemble competed in the most difficult level, Group 1, as well and earned the TOP scores in the STATE that weekend for a Mixed Choir. Members include: Ava Bozak, Sloane Colburn, Marian Cook, Jackson Coppinger, Liam Crum, Ava Cunningham, Emmersynn Curran, Jessica Dahlin, Madailein Dailey, Elijah Fletcher, Porter Fowler, Sophia Higgins, Elianna Hinton, Mara Huneryager, Gianna Iovino, Emma Kaegebein, Jordan Keefover, Lauren Kroft, Caramia Larimer, Talan Lipka, Allie Longacre, Colson Loving, Hannah Loving, Macey Mauke, Colin Miller, Lila Miller, Phillip Moon, Karleigh Pawlyszyn, Emily Ponce, Maxwell Prince, Kassidy Robinson, Kinslee Robinson, Isabella Schirripa, Jeremy Schmidt, Jacob Sessions, Maverik Simmons, Hunter Smith, Landan Smith, Samuel Smith, Ella Taylor, Alexander Vazquez, Brayden Wallen, N Congratulations to our Intermediate Orchestra on their Gold Rating and Gold Sight-reading Award. The students earned a gold rating from all judges, and conquered a very difficult sight reading piece. Intermediate Orchestra members include: Abigayle Chisko, Elsie Crothers, Charlotte Ellis, Sierra Else, Elise Engels, Ava Flores, Evelynn Fortney, Elijah Haas, Isabella Hansen, Natalie Hargarten, Job Hennigar, Michelle Horton, Jack Howerton, Daniel Koch, Anya Martin, Elyssa Martin, Lilah Mclendon, Carlos Nazario Daga, Evelyn Prater, Ryan Seaman, Makenzie Soto, and Anna Wayne. Congrats to these amazing student musicians!   CHS Librarian & Girls Rising club receive community service award from AASL Above, Girls Rising club members at their second annual Trivia Night fundraiser where the group raised over $900 and received donations of over 3000 period products. Front row, left to right, Jackson Leasure, Ava Chiesi, and Isabella Martin. Back row, Club sponsor Emily Wilt, and members Abi Carper, Lily Clark, Lily Grish, Avey Ricks, Luci Thompson, Amelia Santiago. Absent from photo is Sam Carper. Each year, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) honors one school librarian for outstanding collaboration and community service. CHS Librarian Emily Wilt is this year's recipient of this AASL award for the work she has done as the sponsor of CHS's Girls Rising club.  For seven years running, the club has run a donation drive for menstrual products called The Pink Box Project (PBP). In 2022, the club collaborated with the Principles of Construction classes to create wooden boxes– "Menstruation Stations", which were installed in the girls' bathrooms of CHS in 2023. The Menstruation Stations are stocked with pads and tampons, collected from the PBP donation drive, providing free menstrual products to CHS students at the point of need. During the 2024-2025 school year, the project expanded to WMS and LMS as part of graduate Chloe McGowan's Girl Scout Gold Award project, and in 2025 Girls Rising also hosted their first annual Trivia Night to raise funds to keep the menstruation stations stocked throughout the school year.  "The committee agreed that the Pink Box Project stood out as a thoughtfully developed and exceptionally well-executed initiative that has grown in both scope and impact over time,” said committee chair, Lindsey Walters. The project addresses an immediate need while encouraging students to deepen their understanding, recognize differences in opportunity, identify obstacles, and take practical steps to make a positive impact. Club sponsor Emily Wilt is immensely grateful, not only for the recognition from AASL, but for the support of DSC staff and the wider Duneland community. "Our students have a strong sense of service and engagement. Thanks to contributions from my colleagues and donations from local businesses and community members, Girls Rising has been able to turn this idea into a self-sustaining initiative that helps reduce the stigma around menstruation and makes a difference in the lives of our students. I am honored to get to work with these excellent students!"  INSPIRE • ENGAGE • EMPOWER   Exchange Club Talent Show Winners Congratulations to all of the Duneland School students who won the Duneland Exchange Club Talent Show on Saturday, April 18! PRIMARY DIVISION 1st place: Ian Acevedo JUNIOR DIVISION 1st place: Isabelle Fields and Autumn Wall - LMS 2nd place: Lexi Colella - WMS 3rd place: James Lynch - LIS SENIOR DIVISION 1st place: Karleigh Pawlyszyn (12) - CHS 2nd place: Addie Moser (11) - CHS 3rd place: Anna Holmes (11) - CHS   STAFF RECOGNITION Uehling receives second Lilly Grant Congratulations to Chesterton High School teacher Rebecca Uehling who recently received a a Lilly Endowment grant for “Glass Bead History, Culture and Artistry of the Czech Republic: a Documentary” The grant allows for travel to and film a documentary about the bead-manufacturing districts of the Czech Republic; learn advanced bead-making techniques at the Chicago Glass Collective. This is Uehling's second Lilly Endowment grant.   Administrative Professionals Day Yesterday, Duneland celebrated Administrative Professionals Day. Please show your appreciation to all of the Administrative Assistants in our school buildings. Administrative Professionals Day (also known as Administrative Assistant Day, Secretaries Day or Admin Day) is a day to highlight the important role of secretaries, assistants, receptionists, and other administrative support personnel. This year, Administrative Professionals Day was celebrated on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.   Transportation Appreciation Day Each year Transportation Appreciation Day falls on the fourth Tuesday in April, which is April 28 in 2026. Today, we are recognizing all school bus drivers and transportation personnel for taking care of our precious cargo during the school year. Whether they are transporting our kids to school, home, activities, or to sporting events, school bus drivers and transportaton personnel deserve recognition for the job they do.   The Chesterton Music Program finished the 2025-2026 school strong while adding an exciting new distinction for its students and staff. Duneland School Corporation was named among the 2026’s Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) in the country by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation!  This year NAMM was named 1008 school districts as the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education, including only 18 school districts in Indiana. This is the 2nd year in a row that the Duneland School Corporation has been included on this list. The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. Designations are made to districts that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment to and access to music education.  In DSC elementary and intermediate schools, music class is part of the regular curriculum following state standards. Students gain invaluable experience performing in both vocal and instrumental genres. These music teachers (Julia Cardinale, Brummitt Elem.; Kerry Hyde, Bailly Elem.; Laura Carrillo, Yost Elem.; Kierstin Kremer, Jackson Elem.; Lauren Smith, Liberty Elem.; Julie Plant, Liberty Interm.; Joe Nuzzo, Westchester Interm.) lay the foundation for the wide variety of performance opportunities available to students in middle and high school. Beginning in Intermediate School, DSC students at both Liberty and Westchester have the opportunity to join choir, orchestra or band as part of their related arts opportunities. Intermediate ensembles provide the path to enriching performance ensembles at DSC Middle Schools, where over 40% of DSC 5th-8th grade students participate in a band, choir, or orchestra. That's in large part to the top-notch teams of music educators (Liberty team: Vince Arizzi, band; Kristen Garrett, choir; Jessica Christensen, orchestra; Westchester team: Matt Christensen, band; Bella Marquez, choir; Rachel Malott, orchestra) that work to provide meaningful and memorable experiences inside and outside the classroom.  The Chesterton High School Music program sets a high bar for success, regularly achieving local and state recognition. Students are challenged to refine their craft, and the life skills (like teamwork, discipline, time management, and communication) taught in these ensembles are long-lasting. The CHS music team (Jon Flodder, band; Kristin Morris, choir; Brian Grenier, orchestra; Brittney Biddle, administrative assistant) leads the flagship music programs that set DSC apart from other schools. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, DSC answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas. Research into music education continues to demonstrate educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music.   2026-2027 School Year Registration ONLINE REGISTRATION for the 2026-2027 school year is now open so that ALL DSC students are registered by the end of the 2025-2026 school year. To register your children online visit: Parent Access Portal through Skyward. Thank you for your time in reviewing and editing this vital information regarding your student(s) for the schools. Incoming Kindergarten students who enrolled at 2026 Kindergarten Round Up should also complete the registration process. NEW FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR: PARENT/GUARDIAN PIN: As an additional school safety measure, parents and guardians will be required to establish a Parent/Guardian PIN (4–6 digits) that must be provided when calling the school to request a change to a student’s dismissal plan. This includes requests for early release or sign-out for CHS students. The PIN serves as an added layer of identity verification to help school staff confirm that the request is being made by an authorized parent or guardian before a student is released or their dismissal arrangements are changed. FEES: In accordance with Indiana Code, Duneland School Corporation does not charge fees for required curricular materials. Textbooks, instructional software, and other resources necessary for course completion are funded through state reimbursement and/or local school funds. For grades K-4, a student supply fee will be charged to cover personal student supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, and similar items. Once schedules are finalized at the beginning of the school year for grades 5-12, specific course and supply fees will be calculated.  Fees for all grades K-12 will be available for collection through Skyward’s Family Access on September 14, 2026. A reminder notification will be sent once the payment window opens.   Additional fees may apply if textbooks, library materials, or school-issued devices are lost or damaged.    DSC Summer School 2026 Registration Summer School Registration DEADLINE EXTENDED for Grades K-7 Sign up by April 30! Summer School will consist of two sessions: Session 1 from June 5 - 26, 2026 (with no class on June 19, 2026)  Grades PK - 7 and 8 -12 Session 2 from July 6- 25, 2026. Grades 8 -12 Registration? Registration for Summer School DSC 2026 opened on Monday, March 30. Families will be able to register their student(s) through their Skyward Family Access account. For directions on how to register your child please follow the links below based on the current grade level of your student. Instructions for Grades K -7 - Registration Opens March 30, 2026 - EXTENDED TO APRIL 30, 2026 Instructions for Grades 8-12 - Registration Opens March 30, 2026 - closes the last week of May Note: Students in Grades 8-12, who are interested in taking PE should review the additional information on the Flex PE Credit and reduced diploma requirements prior to registering. Location: Grades PreK - 7 Summer School will take place at Liberty Elementary School from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm in Session 1 only. Grades 8 -12 Summer School will take place at Chesterton High School from 7:30 am -12:55 pm for both Session 1 and 2 KinderCamp: Separate invitations will be provided for families interested in KinderCamp, a PreKindergarten Program. Need Skyward Support? If you need support in registering for summer school within the Skyward Arena Scheduling please call your child’s school. Questions? Please contact the following: Grades PreK - 7 - Call the Department of Teaching and Learning at 219-983-3656 Grades 8-12 - Contact the CHS Counseling Office at 219-983-3730   Opportunities for Students and Families The goal of the Duneland School Corporation district school newsletters is to inform students, parents and the school community about school-related information. The Duneland Schools share information that pertains to opportunities our students may be interested in and outside of school on a special page on our website. These available opportunities are offered by not-for-profit partnerships and organizations within our school district boundaries and local communities. Follow this link to Community Opportunities. Want your event/activity/camp posted on this page? Submit a request by email with the flyer/information to the Duneland Schools Administrative Center to ahicks@duneland.k12.in.us and bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us.   'High In Plain Sight' Presentation by Jermaine Galloway AKA Tall Cop This FREE program on Tuesday, April 28 from 6-7:15 p.m., is for parents, guardians, siblings over 18 years of age, and concerned citizens who want to learn about the latest alcohol, vaping and drug trends affecting our youth... Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tall-cop-high-in-plain-sight-tickets-1975333168682?aff=oddtdcreator?   WDSO 35th Annual Radiothon Chesterton High School’s student-run radio station, WDSO 88.3 FM, is gearing up for its 35th Annual Radiothon, taking place April 20–24. The station will broadcast live throughout the week as students take to the airwaves to connect with listeners, celebrate their community, and raise funds to support the station’s future. Student DJs will be live on-air during the station’s pledge drive Monday through Thursday, April 20–23, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and for an extended broadcast on Friday, April 24, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. During Radiothon, listeners can call in with song requests, dedications, and pledges, while also having chances to win prizes throughout the week. Giveaways will include items from local businesses as well as exclusive WDSO merchandise. To show their support, WDSO is encouraging alumni, listeners, and community members near and far to sport their WDSO shirts and hoodies on Friday, April 24. Those who would like to join the tradition but do not yet have merchandise can purchase items by contacting the station during school hours. T-shirts are $20. This year’s Radiothon will be led by Senior Program Directors Claire Demmon and Ella Tonelli, along with a team of dedicated student DJs and staff members: Cece Post, Zach Marchese, Luke Robertson, Lacei Kuckuck, Amare Anderson, Jamie Hodsden, Ethan Gonzalez, Noah Stofko, Aubrey Leidolf, Bear Goodman, Nick Lackey, Aly Malinovsky, Sophia Sylvester, Ria Kashyap, Hannah Welch, and Sybilla Vargas. Listeners can support the Radiothon by making a pledge during the event by calling (219) 983-3777 or messaging the station through Facebook Messenger. WDSO can be heard locally on FM 88.3, streamed through the TuneIn app, or played through Alexa or Google Home devices by asking them to play WDSO. Donations can be mailed to the station with cash or checks payable to WDSO, or submitted via credit or debit card through an online link that will be posted on WDSO’s Facebook page beginning Monday, April 20. Founded in 1976, WDSO 88.3 FM is Chesterton High School’s student-run, non-profit radio station, broadcasting to listeners across Chesterton, Portage, Valparaiso, and Michigan City. Throughout the school year, the station features a wide variety of music alongside local news, weather updates, sports coverage, and community-focused programming.   Saturday Morning CHS Alumni Association Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser Come and help the CHS Alumni Association raise money for CHS Senior Scholarships and enjoy some fellowship with CHS Alumni! Join CHS Alumni Association members at a Scholarship Fundraiser Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 25, 2026 for 7:00-10:00 a.m. at:  The Original George’s Gyros Spot 325 N Calumet Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Your support at this event will make a difference by helping us provide vital scholarships to deserving CHS 2026 student graduates!   Breakfast is $10/per person and is available for dine-in or carry-out. Click this link to purchase tickets in advance online or to make a donation.   Friday & Saturday CHS to present annual Family Theatre Production - Charlotte's Web Chesterton High School will present Charlotte's Web as its annual Family Theatre Production on Friday, April 24 at 7PM; and Saturday, April 25 at 2PM in the Chesterton High School Auditorium, Entrance 31. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 Adults / $8 student/child. Charlotte's Web is based on E.B. White's loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Wilbur has a problem: how to avoid winding up as pork chops! Charlotte, a fine writer and true friend, hits on a plan to fool Farmer Zuckerman. She will create a "miracle." Spinning the words "Some Pig" in her web, Charlotte weaves a solution which not only makes Wilbur a prize pig but also ensures his place on the farm forever.   This treasured tale, features madcap and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love and the true meaning of friendship. Cast members are: Stafany Lopez as Wilbur; Caitlyn Brosas as Charlotte; Emily Clark as Fern Arable; Sybilla Vargas as Narrator/Uncle; Natalie Gallo as Templeton; Click Long as John Arable; Rosemary Hundt as Martha Arable; Eva Solmos as Avery Arable; Zenon Wiatrowski as Lurvy; Giacomo DePasquale as Homer Zuckerman; Jane Lewis as Edith Zuckerman; Emmaline Salentine as Announcer; Amelia Piskula as Goose; Aaron White as Gander; Aviana Murray as Sheep; Josephine Andrucci as Lamb; Kennedy Bisher as Reporter; and Bonnie Clark as Photographer The production is directed by Mr. Robert Morris   Girls Basketball Hoops Camp for Grades K-8 This CHS Hoops Camp for students in grades K-8 will be hosted May 11-12 and 14-15 from 6-7:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Coach Wilson along with staff members and CHS players will teach the fundamentals of the game of basketball, position work, as well as the specific skills associated with our programs offenses and defenses. Register online by clicking on the image above or in-person on May 11 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Trojan Volleyball Camp for Grades 4-8 Chesterton High School is excited to announce its Trojan Volleyball Camp for 2026. The Chesterton Volleyball Program is excited to work with and provide a great experience for future Trojans in grades 4-8. To register, click on the image above or this registration link. For more information contact Lindsay Nibert at lnibert@duneland.k12.in.us   Boys Summer Basketball Camp Chesterton Boys' Basketball is excited to announce its Chesterton Boys' Summer Basketball Camp for 2026. We look forward to continuing to work toward building championships with our future players this summer. For more information contact murban@duneland.k12.in.us Register at https://www.chestertonbasketball.com/ or click the image at the left. Chesterton Dance Team Tryouts The Chesterton High School Dance Team tryouts for 2026-2027 are coming! The team will host a Callout meeting for dancers in Grades 7-11 on Thursday, April 30 at 4:30 p.m. in the Large Group Instruction (LGI) room at Chesterton High School. For more information, contact Coach Amity at danceamity@yahoo.com   Chesterton Soccer Summer. Camp 2026 Chesterton Soccer will offer Summer Camp instruction for students in Pre-K-8th grade on July 20-23. The camp will be divided into three different age groups. Click the link to view the flyer. Click on the image above to register. PCES to host final SEPAC Community Meeting Porter County Education Services will host their final SEPAC CommUNITY meeting of the 2025-2026 school year entitled, "Don't Agree with the IEP? Now What?", on Wednesday, May 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. at PCACS, 1005 N Campbell St. in Valparaiso. These meeting are for parents who have a child with an IEP, or if they are in the initial IEP evaluation stages.   WDSO 88.3 FM Celebrates 50 Years with Community Open House and Anniversary Party WDSO 88.3 FM is proud to celebrate five decades of community radio with a special 50th Anniversary Open House and Evening Celebration on Sunday, May 17, 2026. The station invites alumni, current members, and the broader community to join in honoring this milestone. The celebration will begin with an Open House from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Chesterton High School, located at 2125 South 11th Street in Chesterton. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the station, connect with past and present staff members, and learn more about WDSO’s history and ongoing impact as a local voice in Northwest Indiana. Following the open house, festivities will continue with a 50th Anniversary Party from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Chesterton Moose Lodge, 602 Broadway, Chesterton, IN. The evening event will feature live music from Janky Limo, Ohh Deveraux!, and Chester Brown, with sound support generously contributed by Sanders Indiana Hardware and Dave Weiandt. A suggested donation of $5–$10 is appreciated for the evening event.   “This event celebrates not only the longevity of WDSO, but the incredible community that has supported and shaped it over the past 50 years,” said Emily Fletcher, Operations Manager. “We’re excited to bring together generations of listeners, volunteers, and supporters to honor WDSO's legacy.” Both events are open to the public and welcome attendees of all ages. Whether you were part of WDSO in the past, are an avid supporter, or are just curious about your local station, consider stopping by to celebrate all things WDSO.  Contact the station at 219-983-3777, or send WDSO a message on Facebook for any questions.    CHS Alumni News CHS Alumni Association Pancake Breakfast Join CHS Alumni Association members at a Scholarship Fundraiser Pancake Breakfast this Saturday, April 25, 2026 for 7:00-10:00 a.m. at:  The Original George’s Gyros Spot 325 N Calumet Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Your support at this event will make a difference by helping us provide vital scholarships to deserving CHS 2026 student graduates!   Breakfast is $10/per person and is available for dine-in or carry-out. Click this link to purchase tickets in advance online or to make a donation. CLASS of 2006: 20-Year Reunion The Chesterton High School Class of 2006 will host their 20-year reunion at the Dunes Pavilion in Chesterton on Saturday, July 18 from 6:00-9:00 PM. For more information, click on the links below: LINK TO TICKETS FACEBOOK GROUP TO JOIN CONTACT FORM FOR FUTURE REUNIONS     LINKS FOR PARENTS   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. Click the link or image above to view or print this current school year's 2025-2026 DSC Calendar. DSC 2026-2027 School Year Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link or image above to view or print next school year's 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Skyward Family Access Skyward Quick Access Guide Learn how to use the Skyward Family Access Portal. Link to the Skyward Family Access Portal The Skyward Family Access Portal is also conveniently located on the district and each school's main website page in a row of Quick Find link icons located just under the image on website page (see example below). Canvas Parent Observer Parents are encouraged to set up their Canvas observer accounts to monitor their students' progress. Parents can click this link to view how to set up their Parent Observer Account Link to the Canvas Log In   NorthShore School Clinic The DSC NorthShore Health Center is located at 601 W Morgan Avenue at Door #4. Northshore partners with Duneland Schools to provide medical care for Duneland School child during school hours. Click on the image at left to view the flyer.   Employment Opportunities Join the DSC Team! Looking for school day work while your kids are at school? Check out these and other opportunities on our DSC employment page: https://www.applitrack.com/duneland/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1&   Duneland Spirit Wear Store Did you know that Duneland Schools has an online Spirit Wear Stores where you can buy your Duneland all-school spirit wear? Check out our Spirit Wear Store platform at: https://dunelandschoolsopenstores.itemorder.com/shop/home/   DUNELAND SCHOOL CORPORATION Email: bmartinson@duneland.k12.in.us Website: www.duneland.k12.in.us Location: 601 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN, USA Phone: 219-983-3600 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dunelandschools/ Twitter: @dunelandk12 Instagram: dunelandk12 Duneland School Corporation is located in Northwest Indiana and serves over 5800 students from a 92 square-mile area including Westchester, Jackson, Liberty and parts of Pine Townships, all located in Porter County.

Thursday, Apr 23 2026