DuneNews 2/12/26

February 12, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 26   No School for Winter Break There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Friday, February 13 and Monday, February 16 to observe a winter break and the Presidents' Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 17.   Intent to Return to School Survey Parents and Guardians Don’t Forget: Intent to Return Survey Planning for next year is already underway! Please log in to your Skyward Family Access account to complete the Intent to Return Survey by March 15. Your quick response helps Duneland School Corporation finalize enrollment numbers and balance our classrooms effectively for the upcoming year.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Congratulations to the over 360 students from Liberty Intermediate and Middle, Westchester Intermediate and Middle, and Chesterton High Schools on their fantastic performance last weekend at the ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Contest for Winds, Percussion, and Strings. Hosted at Kankakee Valley Middle School this past Saturday, February 7. The students under the direction of Vince Arizzi, Jessica Christensen, Matt Christensen, Jonathan Flodder, Brian Grenier, and Rachel Malott earned a total of 564 medals. 553 gold medals and 11 silver medals! Liberty Intermediate School Orchestra Gold medal awarded for solo performances: Seth Adams, Dominik Broadstone, Brooklyn Cirilo, Madelyn Dietrich, Madie Hacker, Story Henrichs, Evelyn Herbert, Audrey Hoffman, Bradley Lakia, Ellie Marshall, Grant Rogers, Aria Scott, Hailey Siegmund, Teagan Trinoskey, Johannah VanVleet, and Zeke Wilmington. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Dominik Broadstone, Skylar Cook, Evelyn Herbert, Audrey Hoffman, Bradley Lakia, Ellie Marshall, Raegan Matthews, Grant Rogers, Aria Scott, Johannah VanVleet, Matthew Willis, Zeke Wilmington Westchester Intermediate School ORCHESTRA Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Blake Budny, Henry Chubb, Kendall Cloud, Brooklyn Coddington, Cavan Connor-Flory, Mila Cruz, Mabel Day, David Delgau, Brynnlee Haas, Mason Himan, Abbigail Juliano, Isabella Kirpachova, Crosby Lejeune, Liam Ontiveros, Aeris Sisamis, Maria Tudorache, and Leighton Zahrn. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Blake Budny, Henry Chubb, Kendall Cloud, Brooklyn Coddington, Cavan Connor-Flory, Mila Cruz, Mabel Day, Angel Delgau, David Delgau, Brynnlee Haas, Mason Himan, Abbigail Juliano, Liza Ketner, Isabella Kirpachova, Crosby Lejeune, Emily Moritz, Liam Ontiveros, Jacqueline Pfeiffer, Addison Spanopoulos, Maria Tudorache, Leighton Zahrn Liberty Middle School BAND Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Isaac Anderson, Porter Blythe, Jamie Boyle (2 solos), Emily Bugajski, Maddalyn Burgos, Grady Clark, Adienne Clemons, Noah Cook, Cori Evans, Cailyn Feero, Benjamin Finger, Emma Firestone, Clara Fletcher, Jordyn Floyd, C.C. Fryer, Molly Gray, Alexandria Hardsock, Caroline Haubold, Carson Hawthorne, Carter Holland, Isaac Holmes, Scarlet Love, Mackenzie Nichols, Carson Riesenberg, Anahlyse Rivera, Hannah Robertson, Colt Sandate, Arnaa Saxena, Cormac Sheehan, Elliott Stadler, Ryder Summer, Isabelle Szemes, Luke Thomas, Travis Trinoskey, Ava Vermette, Louise Welborn, and Emily Williams. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Adam Anderson, Noah Anderson (2 ensembles), Zoe Asbury, Porter Blythe, Jamie Boyle, David Brosas, Emily Bugajski, Maddalyn Burgos, Colin Campana, Sydney Chaffee, Grady Clark, Adrienne Clemons, Aaron Combs, Noah Cook, Aria Costello, Vivian Dado (2 ensembles), Ava Delepaz, Grayson Dzugas, Hayden Eppenstein, Cori Evans, Shane Faussett, Cailyn Feero (2 ensembles), Ben Finger (2 ensembles), Clara Fletcher, Jordyn Floyd, Emmalyn Forney, Bradney Freeman, C.C. Fryer, Dillon Gallagher, Lillian Gallion, Vincent Gast, Mason Glinski, Evan Gonzalez, Liam Good, Molly Gray, Hannah Grgic, Cora Hardin, Alex Hardsock, Josiah Harris, Caroline Haubold, Carter Holland, Isaac Holmes, Brayden Kinder, Charley Love, Scarlet Love, Peter McCrovitz, Hunter McDougal, Mackenzie Nichols, Andres Perez, Davis Perryman, Kayleigh Peterson, Carson Riesenberg, Carlee Riley, Anahlyse Rivera, Hannah Robertson (2 ensembles), Joey Rodeck, ZaNiah Samuel, Colt Sandate, Amogh Saxena, Arnaa Saxena, Cormac Sheehan, Richella Sierazy, Daniel Snyder, Evan Soblotne, Elliot Stadler, Ryder Summer (2 ensembles), Isabelle Szemes, Luke Thomas, Brandon Torres, Travis Trinoskey, Ava Vermette, Salma Villarruel, Lulu Welborn, Emily Williams ORCHESTRA Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Charlotte Biron, Aubrey Boyanski, Elinor Chmielarz, Ceci Christ, Charlotte Demsich, Caleb Garcia, Isaac Higgins, Micah Nieves, Liam Nieves, Claire Rogers, Madison Skafgaard, Rubie Soto, and Skylar Trembly. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Aubrey Boyanski, Elinor Chmielarz, Ceci Christ, Charlotte Demsich, Caleb Garcia, Brianna Hargarten, Isaac Higgins, Audrey Lakia, Liam Mahoney, Liam Nieves, Micah Nieves, Elijah Neal-Darden, Ian Olson, Casey Pablo, Jason Perrine, Claire Rogers, Trinity Sandate, Calder Schulz, Genevieve Schulz, Madison Skafgaard, Rubie Soto, Skylar Trembly, Izaak Wright, Kaitlyn Yarosz Westchester Middle School BAND Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Derek Ames, Lillian Bernsten, Molly Durham, Galvin Ellis, Corrina Franco, James Gano, Gianna Griffin, Robert Hundt, Liam Juszczak, Bailey Leidolf, Allison Martin, Veda Osborn, Ellie Scharp, Nathan Seaman, James Stathis, Colton Vanderploeg, and Eloise Wilson. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Claire Byrge, Bailey Leidolf, Lorenzo Squires, Piper Adler, Abram Foster, Cadence Brown, Caleb Denfeld, Jackson Mccurdy, Nathan Zuranski, Derek Ames, Valorie Cooper, Peighton O’Brien, Graison Reithel, Amina Szmutko, Audrey Simmons (2 ensembles), Andrew Medley, Iceous Sisamis, Gianna Griffin (2 ensembles) Molly Durham, Amelia Beatty Maple, Eloise Wilson, James Gano, Sophia Christopher, Tessa Johnston, Avriana Spears, Jaxson Ballas, Galvin Ellis, Harrison Colburn, Benjamin Bachman, Riot Hill, Grayson Street, Robert Hundt, Matthew Loyer, Cohen Parrott, Andrew Yerks. ORCHESTRA Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Ayla Childress, Marlo Colburn, William Crots, Raegan Donahue, Kyleigh Evans, Olivia Hernandez, Luke Mueller, Jaelynn Ray, Maiya Reed, Felicity Robinson, Grayson Tenbarge, and Jenna White. Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Julia Burdick, Ayla Childress, William Crots, Raegan Donahue, Amelia Hanas, Olivia Hernandez, Luke Mueller, Matthew Norris, Jaelynn Ray, Maiya Reed, Beckett Spanopoulos, Jenna White, Alexander Wojewnik, Danielle Burchuk, Della Capodice, Marlo Colburn, Kyleigh Evans, Brooklyn Fields, Hope Fuller, Micah Gray, Ella Henderson, Cooper Himan, Penelope Lockhart, Lennox Murray, Patrick Norris, Chase Olszewski, Matthew Overbey, Scott Pfeiffer, Felicity Robinson, Amiracle Slack, Genevieve Smith, Sophia Solmos, Natalie Stofko, Grayson Tenbarge, Lydia Thompson, Oliva Vereb, Catherine Ward Chesterton High School BAND The following students won gold medals, and qualified for State with their solo performance: Vishva Bharath (2 solos), Wryen Bowen (2 solos), Lyric Brown (2 solos), Tyler Cichocki (2 solos), Giacomo DePasquale (2 solos), Rylan Fields, Miles Gast, Sierra Grant, Liam Gray (2 solos), Lillian Hardwick, Herschel Hardwick, Aleks Kantowski, Andrew Kazmierczak, Jasper Kniola, Kevin Landers, Will Liles (2 solos), Talan Lipka, Kira Lopez, Addison Matthews, Callum McKiddy, Conleigh Murray (3 solos), Katie Newbanks (2 solos), Joshua Nicholes, Cece Post, Noah Roberts, Zavier Santiago, Maverik Simmons, Claire Thomas, Lucas Torres, and Aubree Williams. The following students won gold medals, and qualified for State with their ensemble performance: Gabby Aden, JJ Ames, Vishva Bharath, Jenna Bircher, Cody Brewer, Will Brizendine, Alex Brown (2 ensembles), Holly Decker (2 ensembles), Giacomo DePasquale (2 ensembles), James Drury, Rylan Fields, Miles Gast (2 ensembles), Oliver Good, Sierra Grant, Liam Gray (2 ensembles), Herschel Hardwick, Lillian Hardwick (2 ensembles), Addy Huffmaster, Jayden Hughes (2 ensembles), Ray Hundt, Aleks Kantowski, Jasper Kniola, Lacei Kuckuck, Lex Lauzon, Will Liles, Kira Lopez, Rowan Mayes, Callum McKiddy, Logan McVicker (2 ensembles), Vinny Mueller, Conleigh Murray, Katie Newbanks (2 ensembles), Lilyanne Peschke, Cece Post (2 ensembles), Noah Roberts, Lucy Rutkowski, Zavier Santiago, Hazel Ann Santos, Maverik Simmons (2 ensembles), Madelyn Street, Alina Summer, Adam Tenbarge, Gage Teso, Claire Thomas, Noah Torres, Abigail Vidt, Andria White, Tiara Wilkerson, and Aubree Williams (2 ensembles). Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Jacob Anderson, Clara Arizzi, Chase Brum, Saul Coronado, Uriah Elliott-Halinski, Ava Finke, Collin Gallagher, Graciela Gonzalez Greenman, Oliver Good, Olivia Goodwin, Kai Kniola, Payton Krosack, Landen Longfellow, Allison Lopez, Rowan Mayes, Logan McVicker, Bailiee Metz, William Newman, Kenzie O'Daniel (2 solos), Reagan Rex, Calvin Rossi, Emmaline Salentine, Xander Sierazy, Adam Tenbarge, Noah Torres, Madelyn Welborn, and Natalie Williams. Silver medals awarded for solo performances: Sam Duncan, Ray Hundt, Emily Jenkins, Landen Longfellow, Lilyanne Peschke Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Clara Arizzi (2 ensembles), Wryen Bowen, Cody Brewer, Elizabeth Bugajski, Sam Carper, Carter Nadratowski (2 ensembles), Melody Chapman, Saul Coronado, Sam Duncan, Abiageal Feero (2 ensembles), Ava Finke, Isabella Freeman (2 ensembles), Sierra Grant, Graciela Gonzalez Greenman (3 ensembles), Olivia Goodwin, Rosemary Hudt, Logan Hutchinson, Noah Hyde, Aleks Kantowski, Lily Koppers, Miki Kresal, Izabell Krieg,Leah Krzan, Josh Lahaie, Allison Lopez, Kira Lopez, Benjamin Malinovsky, Addison Matthews, Bailiee Metz (2 ensembles), Samantha Mills, Carter Nadratowski, Katie Newbanks, Natalie Newman, Kenzie O'Daniel, James Peschke, Nate Regan, Te'Ari Reynolds, Calvin Rossi, Emma Salentine, MJ Scharp, Levi Schott, Katie Sim, Abigail Vidt, and Aaron White. ORCHESTRA The following students won gold medals, and qualified for State with their solo performance:  Michael Banowetz, Avi Burke, Jeremy Canfield, Mackenzie Griffith, Lily Linsemeyer, Kate Meyer, Samuel Smith, Chloe Thurman, Daniel Vidt, and Kayla Willis. The following students won gold medals, and qualified for State with their ensemble performance:  Colton Beckwith, Ella Bolinger (2), Avi Burke, Jeremy Canfield, Eva Capodice, Abigail Demsich, Mackenzie Griffith, Autumn Higgins, Ria Kashyap, Lily Linsemeyer, Hunter Mayer, Kate Meyer, Maeci Mullet (2), Chloe Thurman, Mia Tsugawa, Alex Vazquez, Daniel Vidt (2), Hannah Welch, Caylee Wilson, and Lauren Yarosz Gold medals awarded for solo performances: Charlotte Ellis, Lena Finck, Ava Flores, Elijah Haas, Natalie Hargarten, Michelle Horton, Allison Marcotte, Hunter Mayer, Ryan Seaman, and Alexander Vazquez. Silver medals awarded for solo performances: Colton Beckwith and Lauren Yarosz Gold medals awarded for ensemble performances: Elsie Crothers, Abigail Demsich, Charlotte Ellis, Lena Finck, Ava Flores, Job Hennigar, Katherine Jegen, Ria Kashyap, Lily Linsemeyer, Kaylin O’Daniel, Bailey Pikula, Evelyn Prater, Mia Tsugawa, Hannah Welch, and Kayla Willis Silver medals awarded for ensemble performances: Abigayle Chisko, Natalie Hargarten, Michelle Horton, and Elyssa Martin.   KINDERGARTEN Online Enrollment Now Open ONLINE ENROLLMENT is NOW OPEN for incoming Duneland Kindergarten students for the 2026-2027 school year. Families are asked to complete online enrollment prior to attending Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, March 5, 2026. To get started please visit: DSC Kindergarten Enrollment 2026-2027   Teacher and Employee of the Year 2026 Nominations NOW OPEN Help the Duneland School Corporation celebrate the outstanding teachers and employees that make up the district. Each year, DSC conducts the Teacher and Employee of the Year Recognition Program with the mission of inspiring and celebrating those in the education industry. Nominations will be accepted for the following categories: Elementary Teacher- Grades K-6 Secondary Teacher- Grades 7-12 Employee of the Year- Classified Staff Employee Students, former students, parents, colleagues, administrators, or members of the community may nominate DSC teachers and/or classified employees. There is no limit to the number of teachers or classified employees a person may nominate. Please complete a separate nomination form for each teacher and/or classified employee you wish to nominate. Please visit the DSC website to access more information and the nomination forms. Click on the image above to learn more.   Chesterton Music Recruitment Join 5th Grade Orchestra! Calling all 4th graders, the fun is about to begin! Be a part of something special with Chesterton Orchestras next year in Intermediate School. Make lifelong friends, and join a fun team! Join the orchestra and learn to play a violin, viola, cello, or string bass. This opportunity is available to all 4th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Registration Forms are due February 11. Join us and be a part of the Orchestra! Check out our website for more information! Join 6th Grade Band! Current 5th graders, this is what you have been waiting for! Beginning Band information for Summer 2026 and next school year is ready! Join the band and learn to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. This opportunity is available to all 5th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Summer Band is August 3-6. Registration Forms are due February 11. Come to Instrument Try-Outs to learn more! Check out our website for more information! Sign up for Choir Class! Enjoy singing? Creating music with friends? Current 5th graders, NOW is time to sign up for Choir class next year! 6th grade Students have the opportunity to join either Band Class OR Choir Class. Students can participate in both classes starting in 7th Grade, but students can ONLY join Band in 6th grade. There are Afterschool Choir clubs for 5-6th grade students, who are not able to be in a Choir class. Registration Forms are due February 11. We'd love to have you on our team! Check out our website for more information!   Emergency School Closing Procedures Updated 1/21/26* As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No morning or afternoon classes* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there are no preschool classes.   Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 8:45 AM in Canvas. Classes will begin for all grades levels at 9:00 AM. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Ready, Set, Kindergarten for Duneland HUB Parents As Teachers of Porter County is excited to bring Ready, Set, Kindergarten to the Duneland HUB! Parent educators are ready to meet new families for a special 4-month kindergarten jump start program exclusively for the HUB. Classes will be held one time per week on Wednesdays from 3:45-5:45 p.m. from February 4-May 13, 2026. This is a drop-off program. Children must have turned four (4) by August 1 and attending Kindergarten ins 2026-2027. Email: RSLClassroom@gmail.com for more information OR ask for assistance from any HUB staff member.   Opportunities for DSC 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.   CHS Football Boosters Taco Tuesday Give Back Day Chesterton Football Boosters will host a Taco Tuesday all day Give Back Day on Tuesday, February 17 for dine-in and carry-out at El Cantarito in Chesterton. RESCHEDULED! Exceptional Learning (EXL) Parent Ambassadors Mtg. Communicating with Schools is the topic of the January EXL Parent Ambassadors meeting featuring Rhonda Crouch, In*Source Special Education Liaison, on Wednesday, February 18 from 6-7 p.m. at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 West Morgan Ave. Crouch will discuss ways to practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication with school personnel. Please RSVP to Lisa Ilgin at lilgin@duneland.k12.in.us or 219-983-3600 Ext. 1026   Liberty Rec Online Registration NOW Open Liberty Rec online registration is available NOW through February 28. For more information click on the image above or this link Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.     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. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School 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, Feb 12 2026

Parent Survey - Intent to Return

Don’t Forget: Intent to Return Survey Planning for next year is already underway!  Please log in to your Skyward Family Access account to complete the Intent to Return Survey by March 15. Your quick response helps Duneland School Corporation finalize enrollment numbers and balance our classrooms effectively for the upcoming year.

Friday, Feb 06 2026

DuneNews 2/5/26

February 5, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 25   No School for Winter Break There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Friday, February 13 and Monday, February 16 to observe a winter break and the Presidents' Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 17.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Duneland School Board Recognitions The following students were recognized by the Duneland School Board members at their monthly meeting on Monday, February 2. Inspire • Engage • Empower Awards from Teaching & Learning The Department of Teaching and Learning recognized several students for their tremendous leadership, growth and perseverance this fall. Above, left to right, Ray Kane and Branden Wade with School Board members. INSPIRE Award The Inspire Award is based on Trojans who demonstrate exemplary leadership. Leadership embodies mindsets, behaviors and skills to succeed in school and beyond. Ray Kane - Since beginning at Liberty Middle School this year, Ray has made extraordinary progress, both in his academics, and his behavior and overall mindset. He has never met a challenge he refused to take on, and he pushes himself everyday to achieve greater things. We are happy to have him as part of our Duneland community. Branden Wade - Branden is a junior at Chesterton High School and shows exemplary leadership qualities both within and outside the classroom. He always steps up to support his peers and is a strong role model.  Above, left to right, Jordy Nugent Berg and Kha'lani Johnson ENGAGE Award The Engage Award is based on trojans who demonstrate exemplary behaviors. Behavior embodies mindfully using your unique talents to respectfully connect to the school and community.  Jordy Nugent-Berg - Jordy has made exemplary progress since joining Liberty Intermediate School last year. His behavior at school has made him a role model for others, as he works hard to achieve his academic goals, and he seeks out and develops positive relationships with peers and staff alike. We are happy to have him as a part of our Duneland community. Kha’lani Johnson - Kha’lani is a sophomore at Chesterton High School. She is incredibly empathetic towards others, going out of her way to make sure they feel welcomed and included. She greets staff and students with genuine positivity and a smile on a daily basis.  Above, left to right, students Sarah Waters, Ernest Phillips and Channing Fernandez EMPOWER Award EMPOWER AWARD - The Empower Award is based on Trojans who demonstrate exemplary growth/achievement. Growth and achievement as demonstrated by resilience and excellence in the pursuit of academic success.  Sarah Waters - Sarah is a senior at Chesterton High School and demonstrates great perseverance with her academics and also continues to be highly involved in community and extracurricular activities.  Ernest Phillips - Ernie attends Liberty Middle School and has shown exemplary growth in his ability to adapt to changes in learning situations and his ability to self-advocate from 7th grade to 8th grade. He consistently demonstrates respect, outstanding effort in all classes, and always wants to do his absolute best.  Channing Fernandez - Channing is a Kindergartener at Liberty Elementary School. He has made wonderful progress since the beginning of the year. While he was initially hesitant with peers and adjusting to school routines, his confidence has grown so much over the past few months. He now seeks out friendships, moves through his day with greater ease, and has learned many great skills to help manage his emotions. We are very proud of Channing’s hard work and are excited to see how he continues to grow! The Department of Teaching and Learning also recognized several teachers/support staff members for their creativity, dedication and commitment to students. Above, left to right, Rachel Byrnside, Kate Meyer and Shandra Crum INSPIRE Award Rachel Byrnside - Rachel has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills in her role as Instructional Aide with the Developmental Preschool program. She carried those leadership skills with her as she served as the long-term substitute as the Developmental Preschool teacher while the teacher was out on leave. Rachel's natural leadership skills are apparent and have been instrumental in helping to train new instructional aides, managing challenging situations in the classroom, and seeing projects through to the end. Kate Meyer - Kate leads by example and is a role model for all teachers. She has a growth mindset and is able to think outside of the box. Her passion for what she does is contagious. Kate tackles any difficult situation effectively with poise and grace. She collaborates with her peers and is often sought out for her expertise. Her communication with staff, students, and parents is excellent. Kate is a well rounded educator that exemplifies the Inspire award.  Shandra Crum - Shandra is an excellent leader and collaborator with a true growth mindset. She continuously looks for ways to contribute to her department, provides excellent instruction in her classes and also led a schoolwide project this winter that unites staff and gives back to the community. Above, left to right, Fatima Chavez, Jessica Evans, and Kyla Jagiela ENGAGE Award Fatima Chavez - Fatima has consistently worked to develop the Applied Skills programming at Westchester Intermediate & Middle School. She has sought out new opportunities in vocational skills for her students and developed fun and engaging ways for students to be included in the school community. Fatima leads by example and is a great addition to the WIMS staff. She is constantly looking for new ways to engage her students and how she can grow as an educator. In the short time Fatima has worked at Westchester, she has made a lasting impact on staff, students and families. Jessica Evans- Jessica consistently seeks opportunities for her Applied Skills students to be fully immersed and engaged in the larger school community. She has organized and led the community Alley Oop event at CHS for 12 years and has been integral in establishing Unified Bocce and Bowling sports programs this year. She uses her unique talents and creativity to respectfully connect to the school and community.  Kyla Jagiela - Kyla has mindfully used her talents in her role of Applied Skills teacher at Brummitt Elementary.  She is actively dedicated to engaging her students within her classroom, the general education classrooms, and the school.  Kyla is flexible in her thinking and approach to teaching and learning as she welcomes new students to the classroom and adjusts schedules to fit the needs of the students.  She creates warm, inclusive spaces where all students can thrive both academically and emotionally. Above, left to right, Monica Martin, Aaliyah Schoenborn and Deanna Leffert. EMPOWER Award Monica Martin - Monica demonstrates resilience and excellence in her pursuit of academic success for her students in her role as a Deaf and Hard of Hearing teacher in Duneland. She regularly collaborates with teachers and families from preschool through high school. Monica emphasizes independence and self-advocacy with all of her students and she goes above and beyond to provide resources for school staff and families to utilize with their students. Aaliyah Schoenborn: Leah has been a wonderful addition to the Liberty Elementary team. She brings warmth, passion and a strong leadership to her role, embracing new challenges with confidence and care. By thoughtfully blending her expertise in behavior analysis with her growing knowledge in education, she creates a unique and individualized approach to each child that truly supports student growth. Her dedication is evident in the meaningful connections she builds and the positive impact she continues to have on both students and the Liberty Elementary community.  Deeanna Leffert: Deeana has demonstrated exemplary growth and achievement, working with her department to implement creative ideas for curriculum updates to incorporate UDL practices. She continuously seeks ways to improve and demonstrates excellence in the pursuit of her students’ academic success.  Above, left to right, Mia Tsugawa, Madelyn Ryan, Lana Glazer and Eshaal Ali. CHS Class of 2027 Rising Stars of Indiana Each year, the Indiana Association of School Principals recognizes exceptional academic achievement through the Rising Stars of Indiana program. This honor is awarded to the top junior students across the entire state. Congratulations to Eshaal Ali, Lana Glazer, Madelyn Ryan, and Mia Tsugawa, who have been named Rising Stars of Indiana for their remarkable academic accomplishments. These four juniors have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and dedication.   Above: CHS Coed Cheer Team members and coaches CHS Coed Cheer - IASP State Champs 2025 Congratulations to the Chesterton High School Coed Cheer Team for winning the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP) Indiana Cheer Championship in the Large, Varsity Coed Division. This achievement has earned the team a bid to the National High School Cheer Championship in Orlando, Florida in February. In addition, this year the team has achieved the highest score in its program's history at a UCA Regional competition. These dedicated athletes were recognized for their hard work, passion, and commitment.    CHS Winter Guard program is growing! It’s the season for Winter Guard! A coed activity that combines artistry with athleticism, Winter Guard incorporates dance, flags, rifles, and sabers into a competitive performance piece. Chesterton High School’s Winter Guard program is growing, and split into two teams this year: Gold (Varsity) and Maroon (JV).  Congratulations to the Gold team for competing the first time in a new class, in the IHSCGA A Class. This is a class up from last year's Championship-winning show, “Let it Pour”. The CHS Gold Winter Guard’s 2025 show, entitled “Exit Wounds”, explores themes of being sheltered or kidnapped. The performance takes you through the story of how it feels to be lied to, manipulated, and controlled. The musical selections in “Exit Wounds” draw from “Runnin Up That Hill” originally by Kate Bush, but arranged by Baltic House Orchestra.  At the first competition of the season at the Goshen High School, the brand new Maroon Winter Guard earned top five in their division, and had judges praising their buy-in, especially this early in the season. Their competition show, “Head in the Clouds”, preaches “dream big and dream loud”. Featuring “Message in a Bottle” by Taylor Swift, the show is already proving to be visually striking with blues, pinks, and purples. Members of the CHS Gold Winter Guard include: Ava Garland, Madison Jackson, Brianna Manning, Addison Mason, Samantha Mills, Natalie Newman, Kaylin O'Daniel, Kenzie O'Daniel, Baylee Parrott, Lucy Rutkowski, Caryss Vandiver, and Caprie Wilson. Section Leaders are Brianna Manning and Lucy Rutkowski. CHS Maroon Winter Guard members are: Emily Clark, Abigail Demsich, Olivia Goodwin, Molly Gray, Caroline Haubold, Chloe Herbert, Michelle Horton, Abigail Krueger, Averie Kucala, Eleanor Lewis, Allison Lopez, Elyssa Martin, Bailiee Metz, Morgan Millis, Amiya Roedel, Katelyn Sim, and Zenon Wiatrowski. Section Leaders are Abigail Demsich, Abigail Krueger, and Morgan Millis. Prop Crew members include: Bart Hardwick, Herschel Hardwick, Miles Gast, Noah Torres, and Robert Mueller.  CHS Winter Guard Director Jeffory DeHenes leads the Gold Winter Guard, while Assistant Director Brittany Juarez takes point on the Maroon Winter Guard. Brianna Nana and Christiana Gault assist both teams as technical staff. Robert Mueller is in charge of building and maintaining our amazing props. The CHS Winter Guard is scheduled to compete next at DeKalb High School on February 14. To see these guards in action, mark your calendars for our free Community Night performance on March 10 in the CHS Gymnasium!   ISSMA Voice/Piano Solo & Ensemble Results Over 100 students from Liberty Middle, Westchester Middle, and Chesterton High Schools competed at the ISSMA Solo & Ensemble Event for Vocal and Piano that was held at Portage High School on Saturday, January 31. Under the direction of Kristen Garrett, Bella Marquez, and Kristin Morris, the students earned a total of 61 Gold medals. Students were accompanied by Jane DeVries, Gina Jones, and Sharon Angelina. LIBERTY MIDDLE SCHOOL Gold medals awarded for vocal solo performances: Charlotte Basich, Isabelle Fields, Clara Fletcher, Jordyn Floyd, Liam Good, Brianna Hargarten, Harriet Hennigar, Hannah Link, Kaylynn McKeague, Liam Nieves, Payton Sutton, and Autumn Wall. Gold medals awarded for vocal ensemble performances: Charlotte Basich, Valerie Buford, Emily Bugajski, Frida Cintora, Kailey Davis, Cailyn Feero, Isabelle Fields, Clara Fletcher, CC Fryer, Caleb Garcia, Liam Good, Brianna Hargarten, Harriet Hennigar, Logan Herbert, Lily Huneryager, Faith Joers, Brayden Kinder, Anders Kline, Hannah Link, Kaylynn McKeague, Liam Nieves, Molly Rippel, Ava Roche, Claire Rogers, Trinity Sandate, Anya Sartin, Arnaa Saxena, David Schacht, Kinley Sessions, Charles Sheets, Olivia Stanley, Rhyan Surane, Payton Sutton, Xiomara Taylor, Zoey Vrancks, Autumn Wall, Natalee Willis, Mikayla Wozniak, and Theodore Young. Gold medal awarded for piano solo performances: Zeke Wilmington Silver medal awarded for vocal solo performance: Frida Cintora WESTCHESTER MIDDLE SCHOOL Gold medals awarded for vocal solo performances: Ben Bachman, Jovi Bradford, Alexandrea Colella, Raegan Donahue, and Nicholas Shellito.  Gold medals awarded for vocal ensemble performances: Jovi Bradford, Bella Bozak, Cadence Brown, Paisley Cherkis, Riley Collins, Elliot Dees, Raegan Donahue, Emma Ellerthrope, Brooklyn Fields, Abe Foster, River Harrison, Ella Kuliczkowski, Jackson Lukes, Jaelynn Ray, Ellie Scharp, Mia Schirripa, Nora Schultz, Nico Shellito, Amiracle Slack, Nat Stewart, Nadia Stone, Grayson Tenbarge, JR Vernon, and Eloise Wilson. Gold medal awarded for piano solo performances: Clara Newman CHESTERTON HIGH SCHOOL The following students won gold medals, and qualified for State with their vocal solo performance: Isabelle Cain, Ava Cunningham, Emmersyn Curran, Mara Huneryager, Mia Larimer, Talan Lipka, Macey Mauke, Emily Ponce, Kassidy Robinson, Bella Schirripa, Samuel Smith, Emma Wahl, and Aubree Williams. Qualified for State, and earned a gold medal for their piano solo: Michael Banowetz Gold medals, and state qualification, awarded for vocal ensemble performances: Ava Bozak, Liam Crum, Ava Cunningham, Emme Curran, Sophia Higgins, Mara Huneryager, Gianna Iovino, Emma Kaegebein, Jordan Keefover, Lauren Kroft, Mia Larimer, Hannah Loving, Phillip Moon, Emily Ponce, Maxwell Prince, Jacob Sessions, Hunter Smith, and Samuel Smith. Gold medals awarded for vocal solo performances: Lizzie Bugajski, Irene Camacho, Emily Clark, Kendall Doede, Elijah Fletcher, Natalie Gallo, Taylor House, Mia Jakich, Lily Jensen, Lilly Koziczynski, Max Prince, Amelia Santiago, Landan Smith, Brayden Wallen, and Cora Zeilstra. Gold medals awarded for vocal ensemble performances: Mallory Billings, Caitlin Brosas, Skylar Burnson, Irene Camacho, Nevaeh Carr, Valeria Chavez, Emily Clark, Lily Costello, Liam Crum, Addison Deal, Julia Depew, Kendall Doede, Natalie Gallo, Lily Grish, Chloe Herbert, Emily Ilges, Mia Jakich, Jordan Keefover, Lily Koppers, Payton Kroslack, Eleanor Lewis, Macey Mauke, Julia Mobley, Phillip Moon, Aviana Murray, Saniah Newcome, Sophia Ontiveros, Karoline Price, Maxwell Prince, Elena Rosado, Amelia Santiago, Jacob Sessions, Aditi Shiggavi, Hunter Smith, Samuel Smith, Peyton Tratta, and Taryn Wellensiek. Gold medal awarded for piano solo performances: Jessica Dahlin Silver medals awarded for vocal ensemble solo performances: Amelia Santiago and Morgan Steele   Duneland Exchange Club - Youth of the Month Congratulations to an outstanding Chesterton High School senior, Drew Pacilio, the Duneland Exchange Club’s January Student of the Month. Drew is the son of Melissa and Anthony Pacilio. {At right,  Anthony Pacilio, father; Youth of the Month Chair Jackie Ruge-Perkins; recipient Drew Pacilio; and Melissa Pacilio, mother.} Drew's resume´ is the epitome of a well-rounded high school leader and achiever. Drew’s CHS activities are numerous and varied. He is a member of the Trojan Football and Golf teams. Pacilio has been named the Football Special Teams’ MVP and the Golf Team Most Improved Athlete. He played Soccer as a freshman and sophomore. Pacilio is a member of the National Honor Society, CHS Quiz Bowl, Self-Care, and the SAT Prep. He is also a CHS Peer Tutor and a Natural Helper. Drew has attained a high level of academic success. He is an AP Scholar with Honor, a 3-year member of the Principal’s Honor Roll, and a 1-year member of CHS’s High Honor Roll. Drew has been a CHS Scholar Athlete for seven consecutive semesters. And most recently he was named a member of the Indiana Football Coaches Association Academic All-State Team. Pacilio’s community activities include Running With The Irish 5K volunteer, CHS Red Cross Blood Drive, “Plant a Tree” Chesterton, and working as a Fitness Center Attendant for Sand Creek Country Club. Drew is an avid fisherman in the NWI Tributaries. Drew’s future plans include studying Engineering at Purdue University.   STAFF RECOGNITIONS School Resource Officer Appreciation Day National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day is designated as Sunday, February 15. SROs are full-time law enforcement officers with sworn law enforcement authority, trained in school-based policing and crisis response and assigned by an employing law enforcement agency to work with schools using community-oriented policing concepts. Our school resource officers serve as important bridges between youth, law enforcement, and the communities they serve. The Duneland Schools recognizes the important role these individuals play in our schools and school community.   Bailly Receives DEF Acorn Grant Duneland Education Foundation (DEF) is thrilled to present an Acorn Grant to the Exceptional Learning Team at Bailly Elementary. This grant, valued at $1,972.81, will be used to fund Project Reach, a behavioral reinforcement plan.   Pictured above left to right, Olivia VanDenburgh, Bailly School Nurse and DEF Board Member; Bailly Exceptional Learning Team members Abby Parkerson, Caroline Scheidt, and Rhonda Stutphin; Ashleigh Trumble, assistant principal; and Carey Storm, principal.   Intent to Return to School Survey Parents and Guardians Don’t Forget: Intent to Return Survey Planning for next year is already underway! Please log in to your Skyward Family Access account to complete the Intent to Return Survey by March 15. Your quick response helps Duneland School Corporation finalize enrollment numbers and balance our classrooms effectively for the upcoming year.   KINDERGARTEN Online Enrollment Now Open ONLINE ENROLLMENT is NOW OPEN for incoming Duneland Kindergarten students for the 2026-2027 school year. Families are asked to complete online enrollment prior to attending Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, March 5, 2026. To get started please visit: DSC Kindergarten Enrollment 2026-2027   Teacher and Employee of the Year 2026 Nominations NOW OPEN Click on the image below to learn more.   Chesterton Music Recruitment Join 5th Grade Orchestra! Calling all 4th graders, the fun is about to begin! Be a part of something special with Chesterton Orchestras next year in Intermediate School. Make lifelong friends, and join a fun team! Join the orchestra and learn to play a violin, viola, cello, or string bass. This opportunity is available to all 4th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Registration Forms are due February 11. Join us and be a part of the Orchestra! Check out our website for more information! Join 6th Grade Band! Current 5th graders, this is what you have been waiting for! Beginning Band information for Summer 2026 and next school year is ready! Join the band and learn to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. This opportunity is available to all 5th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Summer Band is August 3-6. Registration Forms are due February 11. Come to Instrument Try-Outs to learn more! Check out our website for more information! Sign up for Choir Class! Enjoy singing? Creating music with friends? Current 5th graders, NOW is time to sign up for Choir class next year! 6th grade Students have the opportunity to join either Band Class OR Choir Class. Students can participate in both classes starting in 7th Grade, but students can ONLY join Band in 6th grade. There are Afterschool Choir clubs for 5-6th grade students, who are not able to be in a Choir class. Registration Forms are due February 11. We'd love to have you on our team! Check out our website for more information!   Emergency School Closing Procedures Updated 1/21/26* As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No morning or afternoon classes* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there are no preschool classes.   Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 8:45 AM in Canvas. Classes will begin for all grades levels at 9:00 AM. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   FREE Tobacco Education & Prevention Coalition sponsored program for parents Registration is Required This FREE presentation by Jermaine Galloway (AKA Tall Cop), is for parents, guardians, siblitings over 18 years of age, and concerned citizens who want to lear about the latest alcohol, vaping, and drug trends affecting our youth. Registration is required, Click on the image to register.   Ready, Set, Kindergarten for Duneland HUB Parents As Teachers of Porter County is excited to bring Ready, Set, Kindergarten to the Duneland HUB! Parent educators are ready to meet new families for a special 4-month kindergarten jump start program exclusively for the HUB. Classes will be held one time per week on Wednesdays from 3:45-5:45 p.m. from February 4-May 13, 2026. This is a drop-off program. Children must have turned four (4) by August 1 and attending Kindergarten ins 2026-2027. Email: RSLClassroom@gmail.com for more information OR ask for assistance from any HUB staff member.   Opportunities for DSC 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. TONIGHT! Annual Alley-Oop for Awareness Event Support Alley-Oop for Awareness Come join CHS Applied Skills for a night of fun on Thursday, February 5 at approx. 5:30 p.m. (scrimmage after the CHS JV basketball game) in the CHS Main Gym. Cheer on these students as they play in a fun scrimmage highlighting teamwork, compassion and positivity. The superstars will be available for autographs following the game. Donations will benefit the Peer Leader Scholarship. Alley-Oop T-shirts The annual Alley-Oop for Awareness short-sleeve t-shirts (adult sizes only) will be available at the event for $15 each. Cash or checks made out to Chesterton High School. All proceeds support the Peer Leader Scholarship. T-shirts are also available through Chesterton High School teacher Jessica Evans.   CHS Football Boosters Taco Tuesday Give Back Day Chesterton Football Boosters will host a Taco Tuesday all day Give Back Day on Tuesday, February 17 for dine-in and carry-out at El Cantarito in Chesterton. RESCHEDULED! Exceptional Learning (EXL) Parent Ambassadors Mtg. Communicating with Schools is the topic of the January EXL Parent Ambassadors meeting featuring Rhonda Crouch, In*Source Special Education Liaison, on Wednesday, February 18 from 6-7 p.m. at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 West Morgan Ave. Crouch will discuss ways to practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication with school personnel. Please RSVP to Lisa Ilgin at lilgin@duneland.k12.in.us or 219-983-3600 Ext. 1026   Middle School Athlete Development Camp Chesterton High School Strength and Conditioning will host a Middle School Athlete Development Camp for Winter/Spring 2026 before school from 6:45-8 a.m. at CHS. Click the image above to view the larger PDF of this flyer with all the details. Register at: https://form.jotform.com/260044773492156 Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.   Liberty Rec Online Registration Open Liberty Rec online registration is available NOW through February 28. For more information click on the image to the left or this link      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. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School 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, Feb 05 2026

DuneNews 1/29/26

January 29, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 24   Intent to Return to School Survey Parents and Guardians Please help Duneland School Corporation prepare for the 2026-2027 school year by completing an Intent to Return to School Survey located in your Skyward Family Access Portal. The survey is located on your main screen and under the Online Forms tab and will be available until March 15, 2026.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS All-State Band Congratulations to three CHS music students selected for the Indiana Bandmasters All-State Band! Regarded as the most prestigious honor band in Indiana, the All-State Band employs a competitive 3-stage audition process to select their 87 participants. Katie Newbanks (piccolo, 12th grade), Jayden Hughes (tuba, 11th), and Abigail Vidt (clarinet, 11th) earned spots, and will have the opportunity to rehearse and perform challenging music under nationally recognized conductors. In the past decade, only 10 other CHS students earned placement. Additionally, Claire Thomas (tenor sax, 10th) and Vishva Bharath (percussion, 9th) have been selected as alternates. The All State Band will perform on March 15 at Purdue University.   Show Choir wins in Nebraska CHS Show Choirs competed at Skutt Catholic High School in Nebraska this past weekend, after pivoting when their originally scheduled Missouri competition was cancelled due to the winter storm. The students' dedication paid off, and they returned home with some huge accolades: The Drifters and their Show Choir Band "The Business" captured CHAMPIONS of the Treble Division, as well as earned the award for the competition's Best Opener. The Sandpipers and The Business captured CHAMPIONS of the Mixed Tier 1 Division, and brought home many additional awards, including: Best Vocals, Best Visuals, Best Costumes, and Best Ballad.  The Business received a further award, being named BEST BAND!   Thank you to the CHS Administration, our incredible parent chaperones, staff, and Do-Dads for always making the magic happen for these students! To check out the Show Choirs locally, the groups are hosting their home invitational (Trojan Classic) on February 14; join us for both groups' exhibition performances.   Second Quarter Honor Rolls Click on the links below to view the second quarter honor rolls at each school. Liberty Intermediate School Westchester Intermediate School Liberty Middle School Westchester Middle School Chesterton High School NWI Online School Semester 1   STAFF RECOGNITION A shout out to... Duneland Schools will celebrate National School Counseling Week, February 2-6, 2026. This special week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career. Each Duneland School employs at least one school counselor and each school counseling program. The Duneland School Corporation counseling programs have earned the Indiana Gold Star Counseling Award as well as the American School Counselor Association R.A.M.P. (Recognized ASCA Model Program) awards. The Chesterton High School Counseling Team completed Indiana’s Comprehensive School Counseling Initiative, Carrying the Torch to Student Success at the highest level possible - Gold Star in September of 2024. CHS counselors also maintain their R.A.M.P. designation every five years by submitting a successful application to earn the Re-RAMP status. Their recent RAMP designation is valid through the 2029-2030 school year. The Duneland K-4 schools completed Indiana’s Comprehensive School Counseling Initiative, Carrying the Torch to Student Success at the highest level possible - Gold Star in September 2025. Duneland 5-8 schools are currently in the process of earning this recognition.   KINDERGARTEN Online Enrollment Now Open ONLINE ENROLLMENT is NOW OPEN for incoming Duneland Kindergarten students for the 2026-2027 school year. Families are asked to complete online enrollment prior to attending Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, March 5, 2026. To get started please visit: DSC Kindergarten Enrollment 2026-2027   Teacher and Employee of the Year 2026 Nominations NOW OPEN Click on the image below to learn more.   Chesterton Music Recruitment Join 5th Grade Orchestra! Calling all 4th graders, the fun is about to begin! Be a part of something special with Chesterton Orchestras next year in Intermediate School. Make lifelong friends, and join a fun team! Join the orchestra and learn to play a violin, viola, cello, or string bass. This opportunity is available to all 4th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Registration Forms are due February 11. Join us and be a part of the Orchestra! Check out our website for more information! Join 6th Grade Band! Current 5th graders, this is what you have been waiting for! Beginning Band information for Summer 2026 and next school year is ready! Join the band and learn to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. This opportunity is available to all 5th grade students. In Person Instrument Try-Outs are February 24 (LIS) and 25 (WIS) at CHS Summer Band is August 3-6. Registration Forms are due February 11. Come to Instrument Try-Outs to learn more! Check out our website for more information! Sign up for Choir Class! Enjoy singing? Creating music with friends? Current 5th graders, NOW is time to sign up for Choir class next year! 6th grade Students have the opportunity to join either Band Class OR Choir Class. Students can participate in both classes starting in 7th Grade, but students can ONLY join Band in 6th grade. There are Afterschool Choir clubs for 5-6th grade students, who are not able to be in a Choir class. Registration Forms are due February 11. We'd love to have you on our team! Check out our website for more information!   Emergency School Closing Procedures Updated 1/21/26* As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No morning or afternoon classes* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there are no preschool classes.   Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 8:45 AM in Canvas. Classes will begin for all grades levels at 9:00 AM. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   FREE Tobacco Education & Prevention Coalition sponsored program for parents Registration is Required This FREE presentation by Jermaine Galloway (AKA Tall Cop), is for parents, guardians, siblitings over 18 years of age, and concerned citizens who want to lear about the latest alcohol, vaping, and drug trends affecting our youth. Registration is required, Click on the image to register.   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs The TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Ready, Set, Kindergarten for Duneland HUB Parents As Teachers of Porter County is excited to bring Ready, Set, Kindergarten to the Duneland HUB! Parent educators are ready to meet new families for a special 4-month kindergarten jump start program exclusively for the HUB. Classes will be held one time per week on Wednesdays from 3:45-5:45 p.m. from February 4-May 13, 2026. This is a drop-off program. Children must have turned four (4) by August 1 and attending Kindergarten ins 2026-2027. Email: RSLClassroom@gmail.com for more information OR ask for assistance from any HUB staff member.   Opportunities for DSC 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.   RESCHEDULED! Exceptional Learning (EXL) Parent Ambassadors Mtg. Communicating with Schools is the topic of the January EXL Parent Ambassadors meeting featuring Rhonda Crouch, In*Source Special Education Liaison, on Wednesday, February 18 from 6-7 p.m. at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 West Morgan Ave. Crouch will discuss ways to practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication with school personnel. Please RSVP to Lisa Ilgin at lilgin@duneland.k12.in.us or 219-983-3600 Ext. 1026 RESCHEDULED! Freshman Football Call Out Meeting Chesterton High School is hosting a Freshman Football Call Out Meeting for current 8th graders who want to play football at CHS next season. The meeting is on Monday, January 26 at 5:30 p.m. for students and their parents in the Chesterton High School Cafeteria. Please use Entrance 31. For more information contact Mark Peterson at mapeterson@duneland.k12.in.us   Big Band Bash - January 30 & 31 Mark you calendar for the Big Band Bash! Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday, Jan. 30 and Saturday, Jan. 31. This year, Big Band Bash will be TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria. Swing Dance Lessons will be at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble. Read more on the CHS News page... Purchase Admission Middle School Athlete Development Camp Chesterton High School Strength and Conditioning will host a Middle School Athlete Development Camp for Winter/Spring 2026 before school from 6:45-8 a.m. at CHS. Click the image above to view the larger PDF of this flyer with all the details. Register at: https://form.jotform.com/260044773492156   Annual Alley-Oop for Awareness Event Support Alley-Oop for Awareness Come join CHS Applied Skills for a night of fun on Thursday, February 5 at approx. 5:30 p.m. (scrimmage after the CHS JV basketball game) in the CHS Main Gym. Cheer on these students as they play in a fun scrimmage highlighting teamwork, compassion and positivity. The superstars will be available for autographs following the game. Donations will benefit the Peer Leader Scholarship. Alley-Oop T-shirts The annual Alley-Oop for Awareness short-sleeve t-shirts (adult sizes only) will be available at the event for $15 each. Cash or checks made out to Chesterton High School. All proceeds support the Peer Leader Scholarship. T-shirts are also available through Chesterton High School teacher Jessica Evans.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance Last day to purchase tickets: January 28, 2026 Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.     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. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School 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, Jan 29 2026

DuneNews 1/22/26

January 22, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 23   DSC Closed Friday, January 23 Virtual Synchronous eLearning for All Grades Due to the dangerously cold wind chill forecasted for tomorrow, the Duneland School Corporation will be closed on Friday, January 23, 2026. Students will participate in virtual synchronous e-learning. Teachers will post assignments and schedules by 8:45 a.m. tomorrow morning. Students should log into Canvas, follow their schedule, and participate in live instruction via the Google Meet link. Classes start at 9:00 a.m. for all grade levels. Additional information is available on the DSC website by clicking on the “News” tab and then the “Emergency School Closing” link.   Intent to Return to School Survey Parents and Guardians Please help Duneland School Corporation prepare for the 2026-2027 school year by completing an Intent to Return to School Survey located in your Skyward Family Access Portal. The survey is located on your main screen and under the Online Forms tab and will be available until March 15, 2026.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS CHS Mid-year Graduates Congratulation to three Chesterton High School students from Duneland School's RISE Academy who will graduate mid-year as students of the CHS Class of 2026: Carter Alan Charlson-Rayburn Keegen Jay Overman Mya Elizabeth Slease NWIOS Mid-year Graduates Congratulations to the 10 students who have completed all requirements for mid-year graduation as students of Northwest Indiana Online School's Class of 2026: Christopher Hightower Gabrielle Hull Ty Johnson Lilyann Lane Cesar Mendoza, Jr. Wyatt Nadolski Delaney Nava Mariah Nevarez McKenzie Utley Iva Wever Congratulations to our NWIOS Mid-Year Graduates!     Show Choirs kick off season with a win! The Drifters performing at the River City Showcase this past weekend. The Chesterton Show Choir program kicked off their 2026 Competitive Season this past Saturday in Muscatine, Iowa at the River City Showcase. The students, who have been working on their shows since September, finally had the opportunity to take the stage for adjudication and put on incredible performances to start the season. The Drifters and the CHS Show Choir Band "The Business" captured CHAMPIONS of the Treble/Prep Divisions earning the top scores for vocals and choreography amongst these groups.   The Sandpipers and The Business captured CHAMPIONS of the 4A Mixed Division and earned a place among the top six groups of the day in finals where they took home the award for Best Vocals and captured 1st Runner-Up Honors against a field of show choirs twice their size! Senior Ava Cunningham, pictured at right, was named an Outstanding Soloist, and Chesterton also earned the Fan's Choice Award. Their season continues this upcoming weekend in Chillicothe, MO where they are attending the inaugural Chilli Grooves Show Choir Invitational. The Sandpipers performing at River City Showcase in Muscatine Iowa this past weekend.   Jr. All-State Honor Choir Congratulations to five Liberty Middle School choir students who had an amazing performance this past weekend with the 2026 Indiana All-State Middle School Honor Choir. Left to right, Lily Huneryager, Annabelle Artis, Payton Sutton, Brianna Hargarten and Isabelle Fields were selected through an audition process this past fall to represent Liberty Middle School in this prestigious choir. They worked under the direction of Mrs. Maria Ellis who conducted the 2026 All-State Middle School Honor Choir.  Mrs. Ellis serves as Artistic Director of The Sheldon’s All-Star Chorus and the University of Missouri–St. Louis Voices of Jubilation Community Gospel Choir and is a sought-after clinician and conductor. Over 150 auditioned Indiana middle school choral students participated in the 2026 All-State Middle School Honor Choir as part of the Indiana Music Education Association Professional Development Conference in Ft. Wayne, Indiana.   CHS Students place at Science Olympiad Invitational The Chesterton High School Science Olympiad teams competed at the Crown Point Invitational at Taft Middle School on Saturday, January 17, with 27 high school teams in attendance. We are proud of our students who competed at the invitational. They demonstrated teamwork, problem-solving, and a love of STEM. Science Olympiad is a nationally recognized program that helps provide strong STEM foundations for students. Science Olympiad engages students in 23 different events from astronomy to robotics to entomology and more. The Maroon team placed 12th overall, and the Gold team placed 7th overall. Placing in the top six in their individual events were:  Jany Zhang and Ben Hiestand, 6th place Circuit Lab Giacomo DePasquale, Emily Ponce, Jany Zhang, 6th place Codebusters Mina Arulandu and Stella Strupeck, 6th place Designer Genes  Vishva Bharath, Adelyn Booras, Job Hennigar, 6th place Experimental Design Ria Kashyap and Elizabeth Tatone, 6th place Forensics Ben Hiestand and Job Hennigar, 5th place Materials Science Carys Fleming and Mia Tsugawa, 5th place Remote Sensing Adelyn Booras and Ben Hiestand, 3rd place Remote Sensing Ryan Seaman and Mia Tsugawa, 6th place Rocks and Minerals Kaitlyn Calloway and Callum Webb, 1st place Water Quality Giacomo DePasquale and Ally Schmitt placed 3rd in Hovercraft. Members of the two teams include Eshaal Ali, Oliver Appel, Mina Arulandu, Vishva Bharath, Adelyn Booras, Kaitlyn Calloway, Giacomo DePasquale, John Dodds, Charlotte Ellis, Jayla Elmore, Carys Fleming, Job Hennigar, Ben Hiestand, Ria Kashyap, Parker Metcalf, Emily Ponce, Savannah Scheffler, Ally Schmitt, Ryan Seaman, Aditi Shiggavi, Stella Strupeck, Elizabeth Tatone, Tate Taube, Mia Tsugawa, Elizabeth Uehling, Callum Webb, Taryn Wellensiek, Ava Willis, Lauren Yarosz, and Jany Zhang.    Jr. All-State Band Congratulations to Kevin Landers for his acceptance into the Jr. All-State Band! This Chesterton High School freshman trumpet player was one of 100 Indiana students who were selected to perform last weekend at the IN Music Educators Conference. The audition process is highly competitive, with limited spots, demanding high levels of technical musical skill, and the ability to perform under pressure. Kevin won his seat, and spent the weekend performing with guest conductors and advanced literature. Huge round of applause for Kevin!   IMEA Honor Band Chosen from student musicians across Indiana, five Chesterton High School students earned their spot in the IMEA Honor Band last weekend. Students Aleks Kantowski, Will Liles, Katie Newbanks, Lilyanne Peschke, and Claire Thomas represent the best young musicians in the state, and being selected is a major accomplishment. Students spend weeks rehearsing challenging music in preparation for their performances at the IMEA Conference. Congratulations to these talented, hard-working students on this great accomplishment!   Second Quarter Honor Rolls Click on the links below to view the second quarter honor rolls at each school. Liberty Intermediate School Westchester Intermediate School Liberty Middle School Westchester Middle School Chesterton High School NWI Online School Semester 1   CHS Alumni Association recognizes Hall of Fame Recipients Chesterton Alumni Association Hall of Fame recipients received their award and recognition at the Chesterton High School boys baskeball game this past Friday evening. Congratulations to all!   KINDERGARTEN Online Enrollment Now Open ONLINE ENROLLMENT is NOW OPEN for incoming Duneland Kindergarten students for the 2026-2027 school year. Families are asked to complete online enrollment prior to attending Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, March 5, 2026. To get started please visit: DSC Kindergarten Enrollment 2026-2027   Teacher and Employee of the Year 2026 Nominations Open Next Thursday Nominations for Teacher and Employee of the Year 2026 begin at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 29 , 2026 Click on the image below to learn more.     Emergency School Closing Procedures Updated 1/21/26* As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No morning or afternoon classes* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there are no preschool classes.   Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 8:45 AM in Canvas. Classes will begin for all grades levels at 9:00 AM. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Tobacco Education & Prevention Coalition sponsored program for parents This FREE presentation by Jermaine Galloway (AKA Tall Cop), is for parents, guardians, siblitings over 18 years of age, and concerned citizens who want to lear about the latest alcohol, vaping, and drug trends affecting our youth. Registration is required, Click on the image to register.   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs The TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Opportunities for DSC 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.   Middle School Athlete Development Camp Chesterton High School Strength and Conditioning will host a Middle School Athlete Development Camp for Winter/Spring 2026 before school from 6:45-8 a.m. at CHS. Click the image above to view the larger PDF of this flyer with all the details. Register at: https://form.jotform.com/260044773492156 Freshman Football Call Out Meeting Chesterton High School is hosting a Freshman Football Call Out Meeting for current 8th graders who want to play football at CHS next season. The meeting is on Monday, January 26 at 5:30 p.m. for students and their parents in the Chesterton High School Cafeteria. Please use Entrance 31. For more information contact Mark Peterson at mapeterson@duneland.k12.in.us   Big Band Bash - January 30 & 31 Mark you calendar for the Big Band Bash! Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday, Jan. 30 and Saturday, Jan. 31. This year, Big Band Bash will be TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria. Swing Dance Lessons will be at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble. Read more on the CHS News page... Purchase Admission   Annual Alley-Oop for Awareness Event Support Alley-Oop for Awareness Come join CHS Applied Skills for a night of fun on Thursday, February 5 at approx. 5:30 p.m. (scrimmage after the CHS JV basketball game) in the CHS Main Gym. Cheer on these students as they play in a fun scrimmage highlighting teamwork, compassion and positivity. The superstars will be available for autographs following the game. Donations will benefit the Peer Leader Scholarship. Alley-Oop T-shirts The annual Alley-Oop for Awareness short-sleeve t-shirts (adult sizes only) will be available at the event for $15 each. Cash or checks made out to Chesterton High School. All proceeds support the Peer Leader Scholarship. T-shirts are also available through Chesterton High School teacher Jessica Evans.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance Last day to purchase tickets: January 28, 2026 Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.     Links for Parents DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left 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   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, Jan 22 2026

DuneNews 1/15/26

January 15, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 22   NO SCHOOL - Martin Luther King Jr. Day There will be no school for all Duneland School students on Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Classes will resume for all students on Tuesday, January 20.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Duneland School Board Recognitions The following student sport teams were recognized by the Duneland School Board members at their Monday, January 12 meeting. CHS Girls Golf Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Golf team and coaches for their success this year with an IHSAA Sectional Championship. In addition, Kristin McCoy and Taylor Kisic both were recognized on the All-Conference Team. Team members are:  Kristin McCoy, Taylor Kisic, Genevieve Driscoll, Elizabeth Dodds, Caitlyn Robison, Ella Bolinger, Emery McKiddy Coaches are: Patrick Ward and Adam Schultz   CHS Girls’ Varsity Soccer Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Soccer team and the coaches for their success this year with an IHSAA Sectional Championship. In addition, Eva Montes, Adey Avey, Claire Vrahoretis, and Salina Ford were all named to the DAC All-Conference Team.  Team members are: Surilynn Desch, Natalie Pieters, Claire Sutter, Gabrielle Roberson, Campbell Gingrich, Adey Avey, Claire Vrahoretis, Alice Fancher, Aarohi Agashe,Lucy Arocha, Eva Montes, Natalee Bachman, Lillian Duracz, Salina Ford, Ava Kisic, Ella Rone, Ava Flores,McKenzie Cochran, Laney Sensibaugh, Ava Finke, Madelynn Scharp, Lorelai Simmons, Mia Aguilar Coaches are: Ben Forgey, Donovan Cole, Katie Green, and Elise Gustafson   CHS Boys’ Varsity Tennis Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Tennis team and coaches with success this year with both a DAC and Sectional Championship. In addition, Peytan Belegal, Jake Bell, Shane Henry, and Luke Sorgic received All-Conference honors and Luke also earned MVP and #1 Singles Player recognition. Furthermore, Luke continued his season by advancing to the State Finals as an individual with a 19-2 regular season record and a 7-0 tournament record.  Team members are:  Luke Sorgic, Peytan Belegal, Jack Ciupak, Jake Bell, Shane Henry, Brady McWhirter, Ryland Tolton, Jase Beaudreau, Bryce Douglass, Owen Sularski Coaches are: Tom Bour, Scott Garrison, and Kenny Walsh   Second Quarter Honor Rolls Click on the links below to view the second quarter honor rolls at each school. Liberty Intermediate School Westchester Intermediate School Liberty Middle School Westchester Middle School Chesterton High School - coming soon NWI Online School Semester 1   STUDENT ACTIVITIES Senator Pol and Rep Novak visit CHS Senator Rodney Pol and Representative Randy Novak recently visited CHS to speak with students in IB history, Government, and Speech & Debate classes. Senator Pol and Rep Novak came to speak with students about the most recent legislative session and to take questions from them about politics in our state.   CHS students were engaged and ready with very specific and comprehensive questions. Senator Pol complimented students, saying their questions were some of the best he has taken, including those fielded at open town hall sessions!  Representative Novak was also complimentary about how well informed CHS students were about upcoming policies and legislative changes.    CHS Alumni Association to honor Hall of Fame 2025 recipients on Friday The Chesterton High School (CHS) Alumni Association announces the recipients of the 2025 CHS Alumni Association Hall of Fame (HOF) award. The recipients will be recognized and presented with plaques by the CHS Alumni Association members on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 at the 7 p.m. CHS Boys Varsity Basketball home game against LaPorte between the first and second quarter. The 2025 Alumni Association Hall of Fame recipients are: Jack Campbell - Teacher Retired teacher Jack Campbell’s nominator shared that Jack was a passionate teacher and coach giving his “everything” to students at the beginning of their elementary school years through adulthood. Jack Campbell’s impact on the Duneland community has changed lives for generations.   Fotini Pahos - School Staff Member Fotini Pahos, retired Chesterton High School Instructional Aide served at the school from 1989-2012 with strength and humor every day. She built relationships with the students and staff with her friendly smile, kind personality, and compassion that let you know you could come to her for anything, and she would always listen. She was a shining example of commitment to Duneland Schools and to the students, wrote her nominator.   Jeff Van Drie - Administrator Jeff Van Drie, retired Chesterton High School Principal was a leader who placed the needs of students, staff, and families first, supporting every stakeholder in an approachable, caring, and supportive way. His nominator shared one of Jeff’s guiding philosophies was that “we need to meet kids where they are and help them reach their maximum potential.” This belief shaped his actions and leadership; modeling every day what it means to lead with heart and integrity. Katie Thomas- Alumnus Katie Thomas, Class of 2016, is a role model and community advocate, shared her nominator. A CHS Alum, current Duneland Teacher and Assistant Girls Soccer Coach, Katie supports her students and players by showing them what hard work looks like, holding them accountable to high standards, and bringing joy to everything she touches. She exemplifies sportsmanship, ethics, positivity, and excellence as a student and as an adult with honor and respect mentoring students and adults to be successful in all their endeavors.        Emergency School Closing Procedures As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No Morning Class (Afternoon preschool regular schedule)* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there will be no morning preschool classes. Afternoon preschool will be held at its usual time.  Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 9:00 A.M. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Specially designed for children ages 3TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Opportunities for DSC 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.   SATURDAY! Duneland Education Foundation Trivia Night Support the Duneland Education Foundation as they host their 6th Annual Trivia Night on Saturday, January 17, 2025 5-9 PM at the Chesterton Moose Lodge. The theme this year is 80s/90s Pop Culture! Enjoy dinner, games, and trivia! Prizes for best table theme, best costumes, and overall trivia winner. Food by El Cantarito! Click here to purchase tickets.   SEPAC CommUNITY Meeting in January If your child is receiving services from Porter County Education Services (PCES) or if you are iun the initial IEP evaluation stages, you are invited to attend this informational session reviewing options that can be explored for students with IEP's. Chesterton Dance Team Basketball Kiddie Camp Calling all K-5th graders! Join the Chesterton Dance Team for our super fun annual Basketball Kiddie Camp on January 30th!  Get ready to dance, perform with the high school dance team, and shine at halftime during the Girls Varsity Basketball game against Andrean. •  Cost: Just $50 per person – includes a t-shirt, bow, pizza, and water! hi •  Location: CHS Field House - Door 31 •  Arrival Time: 4 PM Click on the image above to register by Jan. 18   Middle School Athlete Development Camp Chesterton High School Strength and Conditioning will host a Middle School Athlete Development Camp for Winter/Spring 2026 before school from 6:45-8 a.m. at CHS. Click the image above to view the larger PDF of this flyer with all the details. Register at: https://form.jotform.com/260044773492156 Freshman Football Call Out Meeting Chesterton High School is hosting a Freshman Football Call Out Meeting for current 8th graders who want to play football at CHS next season. The meeting is on Monday, January 26 at 5:30 p.m. for students and their parents in the Chesterton High School Cafeteria. Please use Entrance 31. For more information contact Mark Peterson at mapeterson@duneland.k12.in.us   Big Band Bash - January 30 & 31 Mark you calendar for the Big Band Bash! Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday, Jan. 30 and Saturday, Jan. 31. This year, Big Band Bash will be TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria. Swing Dance Lessons will be at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble. Read more on the CHS News page... Purchase Admission Support Alley-Oop for Awareness Come join CHS Applied Skills for a night of fun on Thursday, February 5 at approx. 5:30 p.m. (scrimmage after the CHS JV basketball game) in the CHS Main Gym. Cheer on these students as they play in a fun scrimmage highlighting teamwork, compassion and positivity. The superstars will be available for autographs following the game. Donations will benefit the Peer Leader Scholarship.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance Early bird deadline: January 9, 2026 Last day to purchase tickets: January 28, 2026 Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.     Links for Parents DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left 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   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, Jan 15 2026

DuneNews 1/8/26

January 8, 2026 Vol. 60 No. 21   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS VFW National Veterans Essay Contest Several Liberty Middle School eighth grade student essays were entered into the local Chesterton VFW Post 2511 Veterans Essay Contest. LMS eighth grader Addyson Thompson's essay was selected by the Chesterton post as their local winner and her essay will be entered into the VFW National Veterans Essay contest. Due to a lack of essay participation in a few other Indiana VFW posts, the VFW asked for more submissions. The LMS The following LMS student essays were selected in other districts as their local winners and will move on to the National Veterans' Essay Contest, along with the Chesterton winner Addison Thompson: Orion Clark representing Knox Post 748 Arnaa Saxena representing Rochester Post 1343 Liam Nieves representing Logansport Post 3790 Maya Kellogg representing Delphi Post 9383 Each of these five winning students will receive a $100 check.   Duneland Exchange Club Youth of the Month - Colin Kellogg Senior Colin Kellogg is an outstanding student at Chesterton High School. He excels in academics, sports, and community involvement. During his high school career, Colin has been on the principal’s honor roll every quarter, was awarded the Academic Scholar Athlete every fall and spring season, and has been a member of varsity football team and track and field team all four years. In 2025, Colin was named the 2025 Track and Field Mental Attitude winner, and during the 2025-26 football season Colin was awarded the Defensive Lineman of the Year and the Sportsmanship award. Additionally, Colin is a member of National Honor Society and has served as a Natural Helper participant and leader. He has also been involved in the community, volunteering at Rebuilding Together, Vacation Bible School, and as a soccer referee for Liberty Bible Church. Colin is a student aide volunteer for physical education and the 4th grade at Bailly Elementary School. He hopes to attend Purdue University to to study Actuarial Science. Colin's parents are Heather and Adam Kellogg. CHS Athletic Department receives award Lane One Foundation chooses CHS Athletic Department as its first recipient of its Community Leader of the Year A group of local businessmen seeking to give back started a charitable organization, named it the Lane One Foundation, and chose the Chesterton High School Athletic Department as its first recipient of its Community Leader of the Year Award. The Lane One Foundation, formed by Todd Elliott, Red Stone, Paul Pallas and Kevin Pastrick, presented a trophy and a check for $5,000 to the Athletic Department during a ceremony Thursday in the high school cafeteria. “We decided to give some awards to businesses and some to community leaders,” Stone said. “We try to decide who is making a big impact on the community and we try to help them out.” Stone explained why the department headed by Athletic Director Jeff Hamstra and Assistant Athletic Director Tommy Berry was chosen for the first community leadership award. “Your schools are the heartbeat of your community, right?” Stone said. “What is nice is that they give opportunities to all the sports. We’re not just a football school. We’re football, we’re basketball, we’re girls volleyball. Everybody seems to be hitting on all cylinders. We think they treat everybody fairly and we think they do a heck of a job and they spend a lot of time at it. It’s a 24/7, 365-days-a-year job, and we appreciate them.” After Elliott and Stone presented the award to Hamstra and Berry, they hustled off to present the 2025 Lane One Foundation Business of the Year Award to one of Chesterton High’s all-time great athletes, former football, basketball and track and field star Zack Wellsand, who was inducted into the high school’s athletic Hall of Fame last summer. Wellsand and wife DeAnna run Wellsand Landcapes and Hardscapes, a local business that employs 47 people. The Lane One Foundation is involved in several other areas of the community and is active with special education initiatives, including a bowling club, furnishing the club with shirts and planning to enjoy a bowling outing with the club members in the near future. Caption: From left, Chesterton High School Assistant Athletic Director Tommy Berry, Athletic Director Jeff Hamstra and Lane One Foundation executive board members Todd Elliott and Red Stone. The Lane One Foundation chose the Chesterton High School Athletic Department for the 2025 Community Leader of the Year Award. Absent from photo is Paul Pallas and Kevin Pastrick. --Tom Keegan     Emergency School Closing Procedures As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No Morning Class (Afternoon preschool regular schedule)* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there will be no morning preschool classes. Afternoon preschool will be held at its usual time.  Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 9:00 A.M. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Specially designed for children ages 3TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Opportunities for DSC 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.   Duneland Education Foundation Trivia Night Support the Duneland Education Foundation as they host their 6th Annual Trivia Night on Saturday, January 17, 2025 5-9 PM at the Chesterton Moose Lodge. The theme this year is 80s/90s Pop Culture! Enjoy dinner, games, and trivia! Prizes for best table theme, best costumes, and overall trivia winner. Food by El Cantarito! Click the image above to purchase tickets.   Support Alley-Oop for Awareness   SATURDAY! CHS Show Choirs Winter Showcase It's almost time for the Chesterton Show Choirs Winter Showcase! The annual CHS Show Choirs competition shows are revealed on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM in the CHS Auditorium. This year you will also get the first opportunity to see our brand new middle school show choir "Lake Effect" as they perform part of this year's show, which they will take on the road to the Chicagoland Showcase in March! All seating is Reserved. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance via the link below. Tickets Purchased In Advance are: $12 - Adults/$8 - Students and Seniors Tickets Purchased at the Door are: $15 - Adults/$10 Students and Seniors Buy your tickets here: https://cur8.com/15468/project/136064 Early Learning Family Fun Night Families and children, ages 0-5, are invited to a FREE hands-on celebration of early learning on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Trojan Learning Center - Door 9, 601 W Morgan Avenue in Chesterton. Explore pre-school programs, meet community partners, ask questions and much more.   Exceptional Learning (EXL) Parent Ambassadors Mtg. Communicating with Schools is the topic of the January EXL Parent Ambassadors meeting featuring Rhonda Crouch, In*Source Special Education Liaison, on Wednesday, January 14 from 6-7 p.m. at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 West Morgan Ave. Crouch will discuss ways to practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication with school personnel. Please RSVP to Lisa Ilgin at lilgin@duneland.k12.in.us or 219-983-3600 Ext. 1026 SEPAC CommUNITY Meeting in January If your child is receiving services from Porter County Education Services (PCES) or if you are iun the initial IEP evaluation stages, you are invited to attend this informational session reviewing options that can be explored for students with IEP's.   Big Band Bash - January 30 & 31 Mark you calendar for the Big Band Bash! Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday, Jan. 30 and Saturday, Jan. 31. This year, Big Band Bash will be TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria. Swing Dance Lessons will be at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble. The “Big Band Bash” offers the public a nostalgic dance reminiscent of those held during the 1930’s and 40’s. The musical selections will include melodies from the “Great American Song Book” arranged in the style of the dance tunes from the Big Band era. In addition to the well-known melodies from the Glenn Miller, Stan Kenton, Louis Prima, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Woody Herman bands, the CHS Jazz Ensemble will fill out the evening’s dance book with some familiar offerings from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Reserved seating (tables of 6) is available on both nights. Saturday Reserved and General Admission tickets do not include hors d’oeuvres. General Admission tickets will be available at the door on Saturday, but Reserved tickets must be purchased online. Tickets are available for purchase, at a cost of $20 for Reserved Seating and hors d'oeuvres; or $20 for Saturday General Admission, and $15 for Saturday CHS Students General Admission (in person only). Online tickets are available for purchase at cur8.com. Proceeds from the Big Band Bash will benefit the upcoming All That Jazz performance on May 9 with special guest artists to be announced.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance Early bird deadline: January 9, 2026 Last day to purchase tickets: January 28, 2026 Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show Audition Applications Now is the time for all Duneland Area students to register for the annual Duneland Exchange Club Youth Talent Show! The show is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Click on the image above to apply. Deadline to apply is March 7.     Links for Parents DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left 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   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 School Corporation is seeking an Exceptional Learning (ExL) Instructional Aide at Chesterton High School. The primary responsibility is direct involvement with students in the instructional setting. Duties include supporting students in the classroom, to supplementing regular classroom curriculum with additional enrichment activities for students, to assisting with self-help and self-management skills. Hourly pay: $17 Click the image to above to enter the DSC Employment website to apply.   Click the link above for more information or to apply. NEW! Click the link above for more information or to apply.   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, Jan 08 2026

DuneNews 12/18/25

Dec. 18, 2025 Vol. 60 No. 20   Winter Recess Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to you all! Wishing students and families a restful and relaxing holiday break. The second quarter/first semester will end, and Winter Recess will begin at the end of the school day on Friday, Dec. 19.All classes will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The next issue of the DuneNews will be published on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Report cards will be available in the Skyward Parent Portal on Friday, January 9 at 3:00 p.m.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Each year, the Indiana Association of School Principals recognizes exceptional academic achievement through the Rising Stars of Indiana program. This honor is awarded to the top junior students across the entire state. Congratulations to Eshaal Ali, Lana Glazer, Madelyn Ryan, and Mia Tsugawa, who have been named Rising Stars of Indiana for their remarkable academic accomplishments. These four juniors have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and dedication.   CHS Student Inducted into Spanish Honor Society Congratulations to all newly inducted members of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, pictured above, left to right: Harper Russell, Karina Vasquez, Aubree Williams, Emery McKiddy, Caden Hackett, Mia Aguilar, Eshaal Ali, Ella Bolinger, Emma Dobson, Lana Glazer, Emma Kaegebein, Charlotte Kirk, and Brady McWhirter. Absent from photo: Grace Miller and Allison Van Kley. On Tuesday, December 3, these outstanding Spanish students were formally inducted into the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, to recognize their dedication and excellence in the study of the Spanish language and culture. The induction ceremony celebrated not only the students’ academic achievements but also their commitment to cultural understanding and global citizenship. To qualify for membership, students were required to meet the following criteria: they must be enrolled in Spanish IV, Spanish V or IB Spanish; be a junior or senior; and have earned an A in their previous three semesters of Spanish classes. INSPIRE • ENGAGE • EMPOWER   DEF Acorn Grants Awarded Early Learning HUB at the Trojan Learning Center The Duneland Education Foundation awarded the Early Learning HUB at the Trojan Learning Center with a $4,000 Acorn Grant to purchase books that students will take home with them and read with their families.  Pictured above with HUB participants are educators , left to right, Allison Susdorf- HUB lead instructor; Meg McCarel- Duneland Education Foundation; and HUB assistant instructors Tiffany Johnston and Kelly Williamson. ChompSaws for construction skills The Duneland Education Foundation awarded a $2,200 Acorn Grant to Jose Carrillo, art teacher at Yost Elementary to purchase six ChompSaws. These kid-safe saws will help students learn rudimentary construction skills and build hand-eye coordination. Pictured at right is Josh Huwig-Principal of Yost Elementary; Meg McCarel-Duneland Education Foundation; and recipient Jose Carrillo- Yost Elementary art teacher. Ukeleles at three elementary schools The Duneland Education Foundation awarded an Acorn Grant in the amount of $4.500 to be used to purchase ukuleles and their cases at three Duneland elementary schools - Bailly, Brummitt and Liberty. This grant will help expand the musical opportunities for students at each of these schools.  Pictured at left receiving the grant, left to right, are recipients Kerry Hyde- Bailly Elementary; Julia Rutherford-Cardinale- Brummitt Elementary; and Lauren Smith- Liberty Elementary; Meg McCarel- Duneland Education Foundation; and Ashleigh Trumble- Bailly Elementary Assistant Principal   STUDENT ACTIVITIES German Students visit Christkindlmarket in Chicago CHS German Club visited the Chicago Christkindlmarket on Monday, December 8. At the Chicago branch of the Goethe-Institut A group of German students also visited the Chicago branch of the Goethe-Institut, Germany's official cultural center, where they participated in language activities related to soccer (Fußball) in anticipation of the upcoming World Cup hosted by the USA in 2026.     Emergency School Closing Procedures As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No Morning Class (Afternoon preschool regular schedule)* Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there will be no morning preschool classes. Afternoon preschool will be held at its usual time.  Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 9:00 A.M. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Links for Parents 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.   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left to view or print the 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Dear Families, If you haven't already downloaded the ParentSquare app, we encourage you to do so as it is the best way to stay connected with Duneland schools. A few of the things you can do on the app: View Posts - news and happenings in the class, grade, school, or groups Events - look at the school calendar and save events on your phone Photos - easily view and download class and school photos Participate - volunteer for events, sign-up to bring an item, or fill out a form Communicate - message with staff or your classroom teacher Download the App! If you are viewing this message on your phone, click on a link below to download the app. If you are viewing on your computer, use your phone camera to hover over the QR image to download the app. iPhone - Apple Store  Android - Google Play Store Use the camera on your phone to scan these QR codes - it takes you directly to the App on the Apple or Google Play Store   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   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Specially designed for children ages 3TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year HUB participants performs for Duneland Administration staff members This week, the DSC Administration staff got into the holiday spirit listening to Mrs. Allison and these little ones from the Duneland Early Learning HUB!   Opportunities for DSC 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.   Deadline Dec. 19 to register for Winter Gymnastics Camp The Chesterton High School Gymnastics team in conjunction with the Chesterton Gymnastics Club will host a Winter Gymnastics Camp for students in grades K-8 on December 29 & 30 from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Bailly Elementary Fieldhouse. For more information and to register online click on the image above. Ealry Learning Family Fun Night Families and children, ages 0-5, are invited to a FREE hands-on celebration of early learning on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Trojan Learning Center - Door 9, 601 W Morgan Avenue in Chesterton. Explore pre-school programs, meet community partners, ask questions and much more.   CHS Show Choirs Winter Showcase It's almost time for the Chesterton Show Choirs Winter Showcase! The annual CHS Show Choirs competition shows are revealed on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM in the CHS Auditorium. This year you will also get the first opportunity to see our brand new middle school show choir "Lake Effect" as they perform part of this year's show, which they will take on the road to the Chicagoland Showcase in March! All seating is Reserved. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance via the link below. Tickets Purchased In Advance are: $12 - Adults/$8 - Students and Seniors Tickets Purchased at the Door are: $15 - Adults/$10 Students and Seniors Buy your tickets here: https://cur8.com/15468/project/136064 Exceptional Learning (EXL) Parent Ambassadors Mtg. Communicating with Schools is the topic of the January EXL Parent Ambassadors meeting featuring Rhonda Crouch, In*Source Special Education Liaison, on Wednesday, January 14 from 6-7 p.m. at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 West Morgan Ave. Crouch will discuss ways to practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication with school personnel. Please RSVP to Lisa Ilgin at lilgin@duneland.k12.in.us or 219-983-3600 Ext. 1026   Big Band Bash - January 30 & 31 Mark you calendar for the Big Band Bash! Chesterton High School’s Music Department will host its annual Big Band Bash on Friday, Jan. 30 and Saturday, Jan. 31. This year, Big Band Bash will be TWO evenings of music and dancing, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Cafeteria. Swing Dance Lessons will be at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will enter through Door 31 and are able to partake in raffles, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and dance the night away to music performed by Chesterton High School’s Jazz Ensemble. The “Big Band Bash” offers the public a nostalgic dance reminiscent of those held during the 1930’s and 40’s. The musical selections will include melodies from the “Great American Song Book” arranged in the style of the dance tunes from the Big Band era. In addition to the well-known melodies from the Glenn Miller, Stan Kenton, Louis Prima, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Woody Herman bands, the CHS Jazz Ensemble will fill out the evening’s dance book with some familiar offerings from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Reserved seating (tables of 6) is available on both nights. Saturday Reserved and General Admission tickets do not include hors d’oeuvres. General Admission tickets will be available at the door on Saturday, but Reserved tickets must be purchased online. Tickets are available for purchase, at a cost of $20 for Reserved Seating and hors d'oeuvres; or $20 for Saturday General Admission, and $15 for Saturday CHS Students General Admission (in person only). Online tickets are available for purchase at cur8.com. Proceeds from the Big Band Bash will benefit the upcoming All That Jazz performance on May 9 with special guest artists to be announced.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance Early bird deadline: January 9, 2026 Last day to purchase tickets: January 28, 2026     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 School Corporation is seeking an Exceptional Learning (ExL) Instructional Aide at Chesterton High School. The primary responsibility is direct involvement with students in the instructional setting. Duties include supporting students in the classroom, to supplementing regular classroom curriculum with additional enrichment activities for students, to assisting with self-help and self-management skills. Hourly pay: $17 Click the image to above to enter the DSC Employment website to apply.   Click the link above for more information or to apply. NEW! Click the link above for more information or to apply.   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, Dec 18 2025

DuneNews 12/11/25

Dec. 11, 2025 Vol. 60 No. 19   Winter Recess The second quarter/first semester will end, and Winter Recess will begin at the end of the school day on Friday, Dec. 19. All classes will resume on Tuesday, January 6. Report cards will be available in the Skyward Parent Portal on Friday, January 9 at 3:00 p.m.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Duneland School Board Recognitions The following students were recognized by the Duneland School Board members at their Monday, December 8, 2025 meeting. DSC Students earn Perfect Score on 2024-2025 ILEARN Duneland School Corporation honored several students for exemplary achievement on their ILEARN performance during the 2024-2025 school year. What makes this particular group of students outstanding is that they earned a PERFECT score on ILEARN - Indiana's Learning Evaluation and Readiness Network in their previous grade level. Indiana’s standardized student assessment is an assessment system that measures achievement and growth related to Indiana Academic Standards. The test covers core subjects, including English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Tonight’s presentation includes students in grades 3 through 8 who participated in the assessment and will be receiving Duneland’s Empower Award.  Congratulations to these DSC students, their families, and Duneland’s educators on this exceptional accomplishment! EMPOWER Perfect ILEARN Mathematics Score The Empower Award in the category of Mathematics boasts three students who achieved a perfect score. Those students are, left to right, Isaac Webb, Caleb Marshall; and William Crots (absent from photo) pictured with school board members. Perfect ILEARN Science The Empower Award in the category of Science spotlights four students who earned a perfect score. Those students are Oliver Jackson, William Paris, Liam Ferguson and Ryder Strupeck. Perfect ILEARN Social Studies The Empower Award in the category of Social Studies highlights fifteen students from fifth grade at the Liberty and Westchester campuses. Students are Dominik Broadstone, Pushkar Deshmukh, David Forsythe, Daniel Guerrero, Elliana Marshall, Aiden Minogue, Gavin Pack, Robert Schmiedl, Isabella Stark, Matthew Willis, Absent from photo was Audri Arnett, Liza Ketner, Margaret McGranahan, Evan Nadratowski and Lane Smith. Due to a holiday concert at the Westchester Campus, four Perfect ILEARN - Social Studies recipients were unable to attend the school board meeting. The following students were honored at the concert by Westchester Intermediate Principal Shawn Longacre. Those students are, left to right, Evan Nadratowski, Liza Ketner, Lane Smith and Margaret McGranahan.   Recipients, left to right, Lily Huneryager (8) and Elizabeth Denfeld (4) with school board members at the meeting on Monday evening. Recipient, Abbigail Juliano (6), was honored by Principal Shawn Longacre at the WIS Holiday Concert at CHS on Monday evening. DSC Winter Card Contest Winners Congratulations to the winners of the Duneland School Corporation 2025 Winter Card Contest for grades K-8. A winning card design was selected from the elementary, intermediate and middle school level submissions.  The winning card designs from each level will be used as the 2025 DSC holiday cards. 2025 Winter Card Winners are: ELEMENTARY LEVEL Winner: Elizabeth Denfeld, Bailly Elementary School, 4th grade. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL Winner: Abbigail Juliano, Westchester Intermediate School, 6th grade *Not present due to being at Westchester Holiday Concert MIDDLE LEVEL Winner: Lily Huneryager, Liberty Middle School, 8th grade Each of the winners will receive 10 copies of their cards and art supplies compliments of Duneland School Corporation. Several holiday cards are on display through the month of December here in the lobby at the Duneland Administration Center.   Academic All-American Award - Isabel Durkin Congratulations to Chesterton High School Senior, Isabel Durkin, who has earned the National Speech & Debate Association's (NSDA) Academic All-American award. This coveted award recognizes academic rigor, competitive speech and debate success, and personal excellence. From more than 141,000 student members of the National Speech & Debate Association, fewer than 1% of students earn the Academic All-American award every year. This distinguished award recognizes students who have completed at least five semesters of high school, earned the degree of Superior Distinction in the Speech & Debate Honor Society (a total of 750 merit points); achieved rigorous criteria for GPA and/or test score requirements, and demonstrated outstanding character and leadership.   CHS Boys Cross Country Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Cross Country team! The Chesterton High School Cross Country program wrapped up an outstanding 2025 season with major accomplishments across the board, including a DAC Championship and an IHSAA Sectional Championship. Trojan Pride was on full display from the first race to the finish line!  This year, four runners earned DAC All-Conference honors, including the DAC Most Valuable Runner:  Ryan Nix – DAC MVP, Spencer Martin, William Morgan and Ray Hundt  Congratulations to these athletes on their outstanding individual and team achievements this season!  Team members are: Logan Booth, Jeffery Di Cesare, Nathan Fernandez, Elijah Fletcher, Nolan Harrington, Benjamin Hiestand, Ray Hundt, Nick Jakel, Wyatt Lambersie, Spencer Martin, William Morgan, Ryan Nix, Aaron Pieters, Max Redman, William, Robertson, Ryan Seaman, Xander Sierazy Coaches are: Tom Moeller, Nathan O’Connor and Dylan Olson.   CHS Girls Volleyball Congratulations to the CHS Varsity Volleyball team Team and the coaches for their success this year with both a DAC and Sectional Championship.  Team members are:  Delaney Barrett, Luca Bombacino, Ryleigh Connor, Tenley Davis, Reese Dilbeck, Peyton Ello, Madison Gilliam, Elaina Markwart, Taylor Moore, Chloe Murzyn, Abigail Parrish, Audriana Roach, and Brooke Williams Coaches are: Cathy Dilbeck, Lindsay Fisher, Michael Fisher, Kody Heston and Elizabeth Weglowski.   STUDENT ACTIVITIES Celebrating 53 years of Musical Magic All Madrigal Dinner photos in the video compliments of Jennifer Jendrzejczyk at CHS   Students Attend Cultural Field Trip CHS Spanish IV Students in Spanish IV enjoyed an immersive cultural field trip to the National Museum of Mexican Art in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood on November 14. During their visit, students explored the museum’s renowned Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) exhibit, gaining firsthand insight into the traditions, symbolism, and artistic expressions that honor loved ones who have passed. Following the museum tour, students practiced their language skills by ordering lunch entirely in Spanish at Taqueria Los Comales. From placing their orders to interacting with staff, students had the chance to apply classroom learning in a real-world setting. To end the trip, the group visited a local panadería, where they purchased traditional Mexican baked goods such as conchas and orejas. The trip provided a rich blend of art, language, and cultural appreciation—bringing Spanish learning to life beyond the classroom.   Duneland STEM Expo Event This past Saturday, Dec. 6, Duneland Schools hosted its inaugural Duneland STEM Expo event at the YMCA Healthy Living Campus. Students representing every level of Robotics and Science Olympiad were present to show off their skills, knowledge, and excitement about our districts competitive STEM programs. There were over 300 people who registered for the event and the numbers were consistent throughout the two hours event.  Science Olympiad had interactive activities demonstrating some of their competition activities including paper airplanes flying and a catapult launching ping pong balls around the gym. Our students set up scrimmages for both IQ (3-6) and V5 (7-12) programs with special holiday-themed trophies provided by the CHS Maker Club. Students who did not have robots ready to scrimmage were able to compete in a "Bumper-Bots" Driving challenge and even some of the adults got into the fun.   Middle School Winter Guard Opportunity at LIMS & WIMS Middle School Winter Guards will begin soon at the Westchester and Liberty Campuses! A co-ed sport of the arts for students who like to dance, twirl, and have fun with friends.  NEW THIS YEAR! Any student in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade can join! Sixth grade students at WIS and LIS are welcome to join, as well as 7th and 8th grade students from WMS and LMS. NO Auditions! ALL are welcome! Winter Guard is a GREAT performance avenue for students that are not in band, choir, or orchestra, and provides an additional performance opportunity for our talented middle school musicians. Callout meetings will be conducted in early December, for a Dec-March season. Talk to your school's Band Director: Mr. Christensen (WIMS) or Mr. Arizzi (LIMS).     Emergency School Closing Procedures As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Preschool - No Morning Class (Afternoon preschool regular schedule) Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. *When there is a two-hour delay, there will be no morning preschool classes. Afternoon preschool will be held at its usual time.  Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 9:00 A.M. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Links for Parents 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.   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left to view or print the 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Dear Families, If you haven't already downloaded the ParentSquare app, we encourage you to do so as it is the best way to stay connected with Duneland schools. A few of the things you can do on the app: View Posts - news and happenings in the class, grade, school, or groups Events - look at the school calendar and save events on your phone Photos - easily view and download class and school photos Participate - volunteer for events, sign-up to bring an item, or fill out a form Communicate - message with staff or your classroom teacher Download the App! If you are viewing this message on your phone, click on a link below to download the app. If you are viewing on your computer, use your phone camera to hover over the QR image to download the app. iPhone - Apple Store  Android - Google Play Store Use the camera on your phone to scan these QR codes - it takes you directly to the App on the Apple or Google Play Store   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   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Specially designed for children ages 3TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Activities and Events for Families Opportunities for DSC 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.   Last chance to donate is Friday Duneland Community...We Can Help The Duneland Community inspires us to come together in times of need, engages us to pool our resources to help where and when we can. It empowers students to actively seek out opportunities to serve, making our community a better place to live. Send non-perishable food items, toiletries or cash with your student to school Dec. 1-12. You may also drop them off at the Main Office. The items will be donated to the Westchester Neighbors Food Pantry for distribution in our community.    Coming in December... DSC Holiday Concerts Need to know where to hear those sleigh bells jingling? Ring tingle tingling too? Mark your calendars for the Chesterton Music Holiday concerts. All 6 concerts will be located in the CHS Auditorium, and will be free of charge. The CHS Concerts on Dec 12 do require a Free ticket to reserve your spot. Available here: https://cur8.com/18609/project/135193 Sounds of the Season - CHS Music Dept. Holiday Concert 2025 Join us for the 2025 CHS Holiday Concert! The Chesterton High School Bands, Choirs, and Orchestras will perform tunes to bring holiday cheer. Tickets are free, but must be reserved at either of our two performances (6:00 PM & 7:30 PM). Public Sales Start on Monday, December 1, 2025 12:00 PM The CHS Auditorium doors will open approximately 30 minutes before the program begins. General Admission seating.   Chesterton Trojans Softball Winter Camp Chesterton Trojans Softball will host a Winter Camp for grades K-3 and 4-7 on December 29, 30, and 31 in the CHS Fieldhouse. For more information and to register, click the image above Trojans Baseball Black Friday Hitting Camp Chesterton Baseball will host a Black Friday Hitting Camp for students in grades 3-8 on November 28 from 10 a.m. - Noon. For more information and to register, click on the image above.   Winter Gymnastics Camp The Chesterton High School Gymnastics team in conjunction with the Chesterton Gymnastics Club will host a Winter Gymnastics Camp for students in grades K-8 on December 29 & 30 from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Bailly Elementary Fieldhouse. For more information and to register online click on the image above. Middle School Dance Clinic Learn what it is like to be on the Chesterton Dance Team! Practice with the team for two days and perform with them at halftime on Friday, Dec. 12. For more information and to register click the image above.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance     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/   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& Click the image to above to enter the DSC Employment website to apply.   Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply.   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.

Friday, Dec 12 2025

DuneNews 12/4/25

Dec. 4, 2025 Vol. 60 No. 18   Winter Recess The second quarter/first semester will end, and Winter Recess will begin at the end of the school day on Friday, Dec. 19. All classes will resume on Tuesday, January 6. Report cards will be available in the Skyward Parent Portal on Friday, January 9 at 3:00 p.m.   STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Winter Card Contest Winners The Duneland School Corporation (DSC) 2025 Winter Card Contest for grades K-8 has come to a close. Three designs were selected from the many cards that were submitted. These cards are now on display through 3:30 p.m. on January 5, 2026 at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 W Morgan Avenue in Chesterton during business hours Monday thru Friday from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. A winning card design was selected from the elementary, intermediate and middle school level submissions. Winners will be recognized by the school board on Monday, December 12 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be hosted at the Duneland Administration Center, 601 W. Morgan Ave in Chesterton. The winning card designs from each level will be used as the 2025 DSC holiday cards.   Heart Safe School Designation Schools prepared to respond to sudden cardiac emergencies Today, the Westchester Intermediate Middle School (WIMS) Campus conducted a Code AED drill to maintain their Heart Safe School Designation. The WIMS Campus received certification as a Project Adam Cardiac Emergency Ready School earlier this year. This certification recognizes the school’s commitment to ensuring its students’ and staff's safety and well-being by being fully prepared to respond to sudden cardiac emergencies. The certification process involves a rigorous review and ensures that schools meet or exceed national standards for cardiac emergency preparedness. All of the Duneland Schools have completed their recertification as a Heart Safe School to maintain their designations for the 2025-2026 school year. By continuing to maintain this certification, all of the DSC schools demonstrate their leadership and dedication to student health and safety. Westchester Intermediate / Middle School Recertification Chesterton High School Recertification Liberty Interm/Middle School Recertification   STUDENT ACTIVITIES Journalism Field Trip On Monday, December 1, the Newspaper and Yearbook classes traveled to Beacon Academy at Valparaiso University to hear a college lecture on journalism from Professor Paul Oren, tour the campus, and enjoy lunch with Prof. Oren and Mrs. Shannon O'Brien Besedick, Director of Beacon Academy, discussing journalism, interviewing, our yearbook and newspaper topics and ideas.   Attendees: Lorelai Simmons, Wren Balazs, Helaina Adamopoulos, Sage Wilhem, Emmanuelle Engel, June Peterson, Sophia Sylvester, Lily Escobar, Layla Leon, Milena Oresil, and Camryn Rowton.   Professional shares knowledge of Construction Administration Edward Sawa, Principal Construction Administrator for Fanning Howey shared a PowerPoint presentation with students covering several topics addressing the building trades program. The presentation, Team Relationships and Responsibilities between a Project Foreman and Architectural Engineering Construction Administrator, covered the necessary experience and education, construction administration, project teams, software programs, types of construction; construction administration and operations, meetings, specifications, documentation, safety, reporting and more. At left, the Building Trades morning class with presenter Ed Sawa. The afternoon class will be scheduled for the same presentation soon.   Middle School Winter Guard Opportunity at LIMS & WIMS Middle School Winter Guards will begin soon at the Westchester and Liberty Campuses! A co-ed sport of the arts for students who like to dance, twirl, and have fun with friends.  NEW THIS YEAR! Any student in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade can join! Sixth grade students at WIS and LIS are welcome to join, as well as 7th and 8th grade students from WMS and LMS. NO Auditions! ALL are welcome! Winter Guard is a GREAT performance avenue for students that are not in band, choir, or orchestra, and provides an additional performance opportunity for our talented middle school musicians. Callout meetings will be conducted in early December, for a Dec-March season. Talk to your school's Band Director: Mr. Christensen (WIMS) or Mr. Arizzi (LIMS).     Emergency School Closing Procedures As we approach the winter season, please review the procedures for school closings and/or delays that may occur due to inclement weather. The decision to close school and engage in a virtual-synchronous eLearning day (see below) or alter the school day is made after collaborating with multiple district personnel, local, state departments and agencies, including: law enforcement, national weather service, highway/street departments, and transportation. In addition, other Porter County school districts are consulted due to partnerships that impact special education and career-technical education students. Decisions about school delays due to inclement weather will be made as early as possible. In some instances, a school cancellation may follow a two-hour delay. In the event of a two-hour delay followed by a cancellation, we will do our best to make the decision to cancel school before 9:00 a.m. Delay or cancellation information will be delivered through ParentSquare. These notifications are based on the contact information parents provide in their Skyward Family Access Portal. Please review and update (if necessary) your contact information to receive these notifications. School closing/delay information will also be posted on the DSC website (www.duneland.k12.in.us) and sent to the following media outlets: Radio: WAKE 1500 AM; Indiana 105.5 FM; WEFM 95.9 FM; WDSO 88.3 FM; WGN Radio 720; WBBM Newsradio 780 Local TV Channels: 2, 5, 7, 9, 32 Website: www.emergencyclosingcenter.com The following options will be considered during weather emergencies: Option 1: Start of the school day will be delayed 2-hours. Delayed start times are: Elementary - 9:30 a.m. Intermediate - 10:50 a.m. Middle School - 10:50 a.m. High School - 10:10 a.m. Option 2: Students will not report to school; students will participate in an unplanned inclement weather eLearning day (virtual-synchronous-see Guidelines for Students) Students will take part in Google Meet sessions with their teachers to receive face-to-face instruction. Teachers will post schedules by 9:00 A.M. Please click on the link above for more information. Option 3: Schools will dismiss early   Links for Parents 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.   DSC 2025-2026 School Calendar The 2025-2026 Duneland School Corporation Calendar is available on our website. NEW! DSC 2026-2027 School Calendar The Duneland School Corporation School Board of Trustees approved next school year's 2026-2027 District Calendar Click the link above or the image to the left to view or print the 2026-2027 DSC Calendar.   Dear Families, If you haven't already downloaded the ParentSquare app, we encourage you to do so as it is the best way to stay connected with Duneland schools. A few of the things you can do on the app: View Posts - news and happenings in the class, grade, school, or groups Events - look at the school calendar and save events on your phone Photos - easily view and download class and school photos Participate - volunteer for events, sign-up to bring an item, or fill out a form Communicate - message with staff or your classroom teacher Download the App! If you are viewing this message on your phone, click on a link below to download the app. If you are viewing on your computer, use your phone camera to hover over the QR image to download the app. iPhone - Apple Store  Android - Google Play Store Use the camera on your phone to scan these QR codes - it takes you directly to the App on the Apple or Google Play Store   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   Discover DSC's Trojan Learning Center (TLC)! Supporting young children and families through fun, learning, and connection! Duneland Early Learning HUB The HUB is a free program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, offering birth-to-school experiences that spark curiosity, play, and family bonding. It’s a welcoming space where little learners explore through music, movement, stories, and hands-on activities. Learn more about this exciting opportunity here: Duneland Early Learning HUB. Preschool Programs Specially designed for children ages 3TLC provides specially designed preschool experiences for children ages 3–5 who have developmental delays and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). These classrooms offer supportive, play-based learning to help each child grow, learn, and build confidence. YMCA Partnership Through a collaboration with the Duneland Family YMCA, TLC offers two additional preschool classrooms—creating even more opportunities for young learners to shine. At TLC, all preschool programs follow a research-based curriculum that supports language development, social-emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness. Each day, children learn, play, and grow together in a warm and nurturing environment! Duneland Early Learning HUB Discover the Duneland Early Learning HUB! The Duneland School Corporation Early Learning HUB is proud to be Porter County’s first birth-to-school initiative—a warm, family-centered space where young children and their caregivers come together to learn, play, and grow. If you have children ages 0–5, you’re invited to join us Monday through Friday for engaging learning experiences, connection, and open-play opportunities—all completely free for families. And remember, YOU are your little one’s first teacher. Be present, be engaged, and lead with love as we support every child who walks through our HUB doors. DSC Duneland Early Learning HUB  Enrollment form for the 2025-2026 school year   Activities and Events for Families Opportunities for DSC 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.   Twilight Parade Rescheduled to Friday, December 5 The Duneland Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Chesterton have rescheduled the Twilight Parade originally scheduled for this Saturday, Nov. 29 due to weather and safety concerns. The parade has been rescheduled for Friday, December 5, and will still step off at 5:15 PM. The Duneland Chamber extends its gratitude to all parade participants, businesses, and community partners for their understanding and flexibility. For additional updates, please visit www.dunelandchamber.org or follow the Chamber on social media.   Duneland Community...We Can Help The Duneland Community inspires us to come together in times of need, engages us to pool our resources to help where and when we can. It empowers students to actively seek out opportunities to serve, making our community a better place to live. Send non-perishable food items, toiletries or cash with your student to school Dec. 1-12. You may also drop them off at the Main Office. The items will be donated to the Westchester Neighbors Food Pantry for distribution in our community.    Coming in December... DSC Holiday Concerts Need to know where to hear those sleigh bells jingling? Ring tingle tingling too? Mark your calendars for the Chesterton Music Holiday concerts. All 6 concerts will be located in the CHS Auditorium, and will be free of charge. The CHS Concerts on Dec 12 do require a Free ticket to reserve your spot. Available here: https://cur8.com/18609/project/135193 Sounds of the Season - CHS Music Dept. Holiday Concert 2025 Join us for the 2025 CHS Holiday Concert! The Chesterton High School Bands, Choirs, and Orchestras will perform tunes to bring holiday cheer. Tickets are free, but must be reserved at either of our two performances (6:00 PM & 7:30 PM). Public Sales Start on Monday, December 1, 2025 12:00 PM The CHS Auditorium doors will open approximately 30 minutes before the program begins. General Admission seating.   Chesterton Trojans Softball Winter Camp Chesterton Trojans Softball will host a Winter Camp for grades K-3 and 4-7 on December 29, 30, and 31 in the CHS Fieldhouse. For more information and to register, click the image above Trojans Baseball Black Friday Hitting Camp Chesterton Baseball will host a Black Friday Hitting Camp for students in grades 3-8 on November 28 from 10 a.m. - Noon. For more information and to register, click on the image above.   Winter Gymnastics Camp The Chesterton High School Gymnastics team in conjunction with the Chesterton Gymnastics Club will host a Winter Gymnastics Camp for students in grades K-8 on December 29 & 30 from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Bailly Elementary Fieldhouse. For more information and to register online click on the image above. Middle School Dance Clinic Learn what it is like to be on the Chesterton Dance Team! Practice with the team for two days and perform with them at halftime on Friday, Dec. 12. For more information and to register click the image above.   Lions Club to host Father/Daughter Dance The Chesterton Lions Club will host their 18th annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Chesterton High School. Download the registration form by clicking on the image, at left, or order online at https://sites.google.com/view/chestetonlionsclubdance     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/   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& Click the image to above to enter the DSC Employment website to apply.   Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply. Click the link above for more information or to apply.   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, Dec 04 2025