#1StudentNWI: Last first year at Clay High School

On August 14, Clay High School hosted its final back-to-school block party. Attendees were provided with a free meal cooked by the Culinary Arts Career Technical Education (CTE) class, free t-shirts, and free clear backpacks. In addition, the event had bouncy houses and information for school clubs. Students, mainly new students or freshman, were given tours by members of the student council.

Students were able to receive their paper schedule, and meet teachers. administrators, and upperclassmen who were giving the tours. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are involved in the student council gave guided tours to freshmen not only during the party but the first day of school as well.

“The event was bittersweet,” Senior Class Vice President Micah Cowells said. “It was a blast, but I am so heartbroken that it was Clay High School’s final back-to-school year. However, everyone, including myself, chooses to celebrate the legend that Clay High School is and live in the present in order to savor the memories. I was happy seeing so many people gather at the event; it truly felt like our entire community came together.”

On September 2, 3, and 4, Clay High School will be hosting Parking Lot Painting, where students may paint their own parking spot. All students can participate in the fun, paying $10 in order to reserve a spot. Additionally, students must draw their design and submit it to Senior Class Officer Migdalia Lopez for approval. If a student is not interested in painting, they may rent a parking space that had been previously painted for $20.

Students and staff are excited, as this is the first opportunity for underclassmen to participate in the event. In previous years, only seniors were able to participate. Many students have begun discussing what they want on their parking spot; some want their jersey number, others a fictional character. Regardless of the design, excitement is flowing throughout the building. Students must bring their own paint and other materials and supplies, as the school doors will be locked.

The long Labor Day weekend provides students plenty of time to complete their parking lot space. Students may work in partners or form groups to complete a spot. Administration, as well as teachers, will take turns supervising the activity, offering a helping hand to students. If weather does not permit painting, the rescheduled date will be September 9 and 10.

Taylor Newport is the head of the history department at Clay High School. Newport teaches Advanced Placement (AP) World and United States (US) History and regular history. Newport is an alumnus of Clay High School and a member of the Class of 2018. After graduating, Newport attended Indiana University South Bend (IUSB) and graduated with a bachelors in Secondary Education and a minors in history.

Newport has taught at Clay High School for two years excluding her student teaching. She became interested in teaching because she wanted to inspire young minds while also providing a safe place for students in the building. Newport loves building relationships with her students and her colleagues. Additionally, Newport is involved with the student council, sponsoring the junior class officers.

“I love Clay High School; the community, the students, the staff, and the programs,” said Newport. “I think Clay is a special place, and I will be deeply saddened when the school year ends and Clay High School closes permanently. I will lose a part of myself and so will many others. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach at such an amazing school, and will forever miss it. Clay High School will forever be legendary.”

Abigail Demler is a senior at Clay High School. Demler is an all-season athlete, playing soccer, softball, and basketball. Demler is involved in student council, holding the position of senior class president. Demler is also involved in the student leadership program and the restorative justice program.

Although Demler is widely known for her bright red hair, she is also known for her family. Demler is the youngest of three children, both of which are also Clay alumni. Additionally, Demler’s father is a member of the South Bend Police Department, causing teachers and students to recognize her. Demler is known throughout the building, often stopping in classes during passing periods to say hello to teachers.

“I love Clay High School more than anything,” Demler said, “Honestly, Clay High School helped me find myself and shaped me as a person. I have received so many opportunities I would never have received had I gone to another school. Clay provided me with long-life friendships and memories, and I will never forget my time at this school. I am sad that Clay will not exist soon, and I will continue to fight for Clay High School to stay open. Clay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am honored to have been a part of it.”