By Ashley Schmidt|Staff Writer
Indian Trail has changed dramatically over the past four years. The senior class has gone from gazing down from balconies onto underclassmen in the commons between periods, to becoming lost in a roaring crowd of students. The school population has grown from about 1,100 students to about 1,900 students in just a few short years. When the current general studies juniors entered Indian Trail they were tasked with the responsibility to set the example for the rest of the general studies students to come, and create a name for themselves, a large order for stu- dents barely out of middle school.
“I see students trying to fit in with other students and look to them for guidance on how to survive high school,” said Emily Ottinger, a Communications Academy junior.
With the recent changes that have been done to our school, we have a chance to redefine how the public views our school. We have a chance to redefine what
a Hawk is. From Comprehensive students to Academy students, ninth graders to 12th graders, IT Hawks need to take it upon themselves to give this school the reputation it deserves. Students need to start maturing by throwing away their own garbage, showing respect, and following the rules of the school as well as the classroom. In just two years, Indian Trail will likely be the largest high school in the state of Wisconsin. What do we want to be known for as graduates of this school?
The school is opening doors all around its students in order to make it a more productive environment. Programs such as PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports) and the student advisory board have been created in order for students to be more involved with what is going on around the school.
Throughout all of our lives, we must remember to always act as role models. But the most important time to remember this is young adulthood. Although you may not realize it, those younger than you are always looking for guidance, even if it is just a year in age difference. And you are just the person to show them how to act. Make sure you are making a positive impression for those that come after you.
In many ways, we have become just like a traditional high school, but there are still so many things to set us apart from the crowd: our National Honor Society continues to grow over the years; we have budding new sports teams; our academies offer specialty studies in medical science, communications, business, and military leadership; and a wonderful new auditorium is filled with various arts on a regular basis. There is no shortage of outlets for students, but we must make sure that we utilize these opportunities to the best of our abilities.
We must make sure Hawks have quality role models that will show them how to soar through life. Are you prepared to be that role model?