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Happy Teacher Appreciation and Nurses Week! 🏫🍎📚👩🏽⚕️🧑🏽⚕️⚕️
Scream 7 hits theaters and wins big at the box office.
Scream 7 hits theaters and wins big at the box office.
published on May 4, 2026
by Reggenea Riley
The new horror movie Scream 7 opened in theaters everywhere on February 27. Even though the movie had many problems during filming, it quickly became the number one movie in the country. This sequel brings back the original star, Neve Campbell, to face a new “Ghostface” killer who is hunting her family.
The movie faced a lot of drama before it was finished. Two of the main stars from the last two movies, Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, left the project. Many fans were worried the movie would fail without them. However, Scream 7 earned $60 million during its first weekend. This is one of the biggest openings in the history of the whole series.
While the movie is making a lot of money, not every fan is happy. Some people feel the story focused too much on old characters instead of trying new things.
For Marcus Miller, he was excited to see some original characters back in the picture.
“It was so cool to see Sidney Prescott back on the big screen, but the story felt a little bit rushed because so many actors changed at the last minute,” Miller said.
Movie critics are also split on whether the film is actually good. Some say it is a classic horror story, while others think it is getting a bit boring.
“Scream 7 gives fans exactly what they want, but it doesn't offer many surprises," wrote movie critic Tim Grierson in a recent review.
Because the movie is doing so well at the box office, experts think there will be a Scream 8 project in the works. For now, Ghostface is back, and it seems like audiences are still ready to be scared.
The ups and downs of balancing school with sports
The ups and downs of balancing school with sports
How students balance school and part-time jobs
How students balance school and part-time jobs
published on May 4, 2026
by Ruben Hererra
Balancing school and sports at Hammond Central High School can be difficult for students.
Throughout the difficulties, many students find ways to properly balance school and sport to successfully thrive as students and athletes.
Many students find themselves with busy schedules and try to adapt their schedules to the sport like Junior Zahid Aniceto who plays for the men’s volleyball team.
“My biggest challenge is making sure I can attend everything I can with such busy schedule not including my sports schedule. I make sure I’m well rested, I’ve retained valuable information, make time for assignments, and make sure that I’m not doing too much of anything to where I don’t have time for myself or family” Aniceto Said.
For other students, participating in school activities becomes a motivator to succeed in school.
Junior Joshua Johnson, who participates in the men’s tennis and volleyball teams agrees.
“It motivates me as a student since I want to play the sport. I have to do well in school, so it motivates me to work on my assignments,” Johnson said.
According to a study by Northwest Missouri University on students from Missouri and Arizona, student-athletes statistically tend to have, on average, a 3.56 GPA compared to non-student-athletes having, on average, a 3.40 GPA.
The study concluded that school sports have a positive impact on student education.
Among all students though, a common sentiment is that participating in a sport is worth the stressful tradeoff.
For Junior Jacob Muñoz, who participates in men’s soccer and track, school is something that he looks forward to because of sports.
“It definitely makes it more fun even though it is stressful but the bonding I’ve made with my teammates and friends has definitely made school way more enjoyable,” Muñoz said.
Overall, balancing sports and education can be a challenge for students, but is also an opportunity for many students to put themselves on the right path to succeed and enjoy their high school lives.
published on May 4, 2026
by Sarahi Macedo
Students in high school and college are balancing classes and a part-time job, working long hours while trying to stay on top of their education, often struggle with balancing and prioritizing their everyday schedules.
According to Mental Health America students should ideally work 10-15 hours per week to be able to have enough time for their personal life. In some cases some students are responsible for their own finances, but have the option to schedule online classes or talk with their professors to work around their schedule.
Many students work several days a week, often starting shifts in the afternoon and staying until closing.
According to senior Kira Floyd, she works at a coffee shop and typically works from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“My grades haven't been affected due to my work schedule, but it can be hard managing school, work, and my personal life,” Floyd said.
Another senior, Matt Coreas, who works at a retail store, said he works 4-10 hour shifts about four times a week.
According to Coreas, he tries to finish his schoolwork during school, but does not always have enough time.
“It can be stressful and overwhelming sometimes, my grades have been affected because of my work schedule,” Coreas said.
Cassandra Cortez, a graduate from Hammond Central, now a sophomore in college, works up to nine hours a day, four days a week.
“Staying organized and keeping a neat schedule is really important to be able to balance it,” Cortez said.
Cortez also mentioned that letting her boss know what days she can and cannot work because of school has helped her since her job is lenient with having off days.
Overall, balancing school and work can be stressful for students, but many students are learning how to manage their time and making it work.
Social media: how does it really affect students lives?
Social media: how does it really affect students lives?
published on May 4, 2026
by Ariyah Smith
At Hammond Central High School, a lot of teens spend hours every day on social media, and it doesn’t always have a good effect on their lives.
Studies show that the more time teens spend online, the less sleep they tend to get. They may have trouble focusing and feel more stressed, too.
While social media can definitely be fun and a great way to stay connected, but it also brings problems that affect students both in and out of school.
One freshman, Yarley Fuentes, stated that she spends about four hours a day on apps like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. She likes that social media helps her stay in touch with friends, but she admits it makes it harder to focus on homework.
“Sometimes I pick up my phone just to check one thing, and then I end up scrolling for a long time,” Fuentes said.
Experts also say that too much screen time can hurt sleep. The National Sleep Foundation reports that teens who use their phones late at night are more likely to feel tired the next day. When students are exhausted, it’s harder for them to pay attention in class and keep up with schoolwork.
Fuentes mentioned that she often stays up late on her phone, and as a result, she feels worn out the next day. Her experience shows how quickly social media can turn into a distraction.
Another freshman, Laeah Vaughn, shared a similar story. Vaughn said that social media can be fun, but it also causes stress and distraction. Seeing posts online can make students compare themselves to others or feel left out.
While Vaughn enjoys talking to friends online, negative comments and endless scrolling can start to feel overwhelming. This shows that social media can have both good and bad effects, depending on how it’s used.
Even though many teens know that not everything they see online is real, social media still affects how they think and act.
Students may understand that posts are edited or exaggerated, but they can still feel pressure to keep up. This can lead to stress and lower self-confidence.
Some students say that if they could change their habits, they would try to spend less time on their phones.
Simple steps like setting time limits, turning off notifications, or staying off their phones before bed could help cut down the negative effects.
In the end, social media plays a huge role in students’ lives today. It keeps them connected and entertained, but it can also lead to distraction, stress, and lack of sleep.
Finding a healthy balance is important so that social media has a more positive impact instead of a negative one.
Bad Bunny makes history during Super Bowl LX Halftime Show
Bad Bunny makes history during Super Bowl LX Halftime Show
published March 13, 2026
by Wesley Cooke
When the lights dimmed at Super Bowl LX, the energy inside Levi's stadium quickly shifted. The championship matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots paused as the attention of the stadium and millions of viewers around the world turned to the halftime stage. The spotlight focused on one of the biggest music stars in the world: Bad Bunny
The 2026 championship marked the 60th Super Bowl, a milestone event for the National Football League. To celebrate the anniversary, organizers planned a halftime show that reflected both the league’s history and the changing landscape of global entertainment. Selecting Bad Bunny as the headliner demonstrated the NFL’s growing recognition of Latin music and its expanding international audience.
From the moment the music began, the stadium crowd responded with excitement. Known for blending reggaeton, Latin trap, and pop influences, Bad Bunny brought high energy to the stage. His performance included choreographed dancers, vibrant visuals, and a stage setup that transformed the football field into a large-scale concert venue. Bright lights, synchronized dance routines, and giant video screens allowed fans throughout the stadium to experience the performance clearly.
During the show, Bad Bunny addressed the crowd and reflected on the importance of the moment. “This stage is bigger than music,” he said. “It represents my culture, my people, and everyone who grew up listening to Latin music around the world.”
Sports and entertainment reporters also noted the cultural impact of the performance. ESPN reporter Maria Taylor said the halftime show represented an important moment for representation in major sporting events.
“Seeing a Latin artist headline the Super Bowl halftime show shows how much the game and its audience has become global,” Taylor said.
While the halftime show entertained fans, it also carried a deeper cultural meaning. Bad Bunny’s appearance represented the increasing influence of Latin artists in mainstream entertainment. As one of the most streamed artists in the world, his presence on one of the biggest stages in sports highlighted the global reach of Latin music.
For many Latino viewers, the moment represented more than a halftime performance. Seeing a Latin artist headline such a major event created a sense of pride and recognition. It demonstrated how Latino culture continues to shape the music industry and gain visibility in major global events.
Super fan and Spanish and business teacher Veronica Garcia stated that seeing Bad Bunny perform on the world's stage meant so much for representation and the celebration of culture.
“His performance celebrated and featured so many references to cultural moments like the sugar cane, dominoes, nail tech, the dancing in front of the bodega, the wedding and of course the little kid sleeping on the chairs! All of these tiny mentions highlighted joy and so many cultural moments that mean so much to so many,” Garcia said.
She added that Bad Bunny was able to highlight and recognize all the countries of the Americas, showing that [we] are all one people regardless of borders and the important truth that, "the only thing more powerful than hate is love."
For fans watching in the stadium and around the world, the 2026 halftime show will likely be remembered as more than just a break in the game. On the 60th anniversary of the Super Bowl, Bad Bunny did more than perform; he helped mark an important cultural moment in the event’s history.
Is taking a gap year after high school beneficial?
Is taking a gap year after high school beneficial?
published on March 13, 2026
by Abril Rosales
As seniors at Hammond Central approach graduation, a big decision awaits them: What path will they take after high school when it is time to enter the real world?
Many students have to face the important decision whether to go to college or take a gap year. Going to college allows students to start working on earning a degree right away, even though it can be quite expensive at times. On the other hand, taking a gap year can help others with personal growth.
Senior Ruben Esquivel will be crossing the stage this May and his main focus is not falling behind and going straight into focusing on his career and future.
“You shouldn't take a gap year because regardless, life is going to move without you, you might as well just get straight to work and life,” Esquivel said.
JAG teacher Pandora Perkins has different thoughts on how a gap year can help you or form you during that time. Perkins believes that it can help you with your mentality.
“It can give you a chance to develop a better routine and support system where you didn't have that because you had to attend school, to better educate yourself,” Perkins said.
While many people and students have different opinions about whether going to college is good or not, taking a gap year can either help or put you behind. Student Aileen Villela, who is also a senior at Hammond Central, strongly believes that taking a gap year can help you focus on preparing for college and bettering yourself.
“I honestly think taking a gap year after high school helps students emotionally and mentally by simply letting them breathe and collect themselves after such long years of school,” Villela said.
Studies have actually shown and proved that Villela’s point of view is not far off the mark.. According to one study, students who attend college a year later are more likely to be more focused and motivated than those who go straight into college after graduation.
According to the 2020 Gap Year Association Survey Report, taking a gap year has resulted in students having their own life experiences and helping them understand themselves more. This shows that even though going straight to college is a faster process, it can be harder on students mentally.
It is important that graduates know what they want to do after high school. Seniors are not only thinking about their future plans but preparing for the real world that is ahead of them. However, taking a little time to figure things out may not be the worst plan.
Is Y2K fashion here to stay?
Is Y2K fashion here to stay?
published on February 12, 2026
by Maura Soriano
Cheetah print, bedazzled jeans, chunky jewelry, low rise jeans; all fashion trends from the decade of the 2000s. But as we approach the new year of 2026 people ask, are the 2000s fashion trends back and here to stay?
Social Media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, are FILLED with influencers wearing Y2K clothing. Most of them are retrieving clothing from their own mother´s closets from when they were in high school. ¨Thrifting¨ is considered the new hotspot for these types of clothing.
But the real question is, ‘Is everyone on the same page?’ How do we know for sure that Y2K style is back? Tiktok influencer Ashani also known as ¨Vunik¨ has a total of 89.1k followers on Tiktok. Ashani makes videos embracing the 2000s fashion and even promoting small brands who still make 2000s fashion.
According to Ashani, she thinks the comeback of 2000s fashion is encouraged because of nostalgia and that trends get recycled through time.
“I think 2000s fashion will always have an impact within today’s fashion but it´ll never be the same as it used to be and that´s fine,” Ashani said.
We see influencers like Ashani everyday on social media platforms, influencing and encouraging the younger generation on trends that they think are considered ‘hot.’ But does it actually work? Is the younger generation responding to the 2000s comeback?
Hammond Central class of 2025 graduate, Jade Larraga, wears brands such as Baby Phat, Miss Sixty, Flitch, etc. All of these brands were sky rocketing in the early 2000s.
Larraga stated that the 2000s were bold and playful and also that when it comes down to 2000s fashion she looks for very colorful and detailed clothes.
“I think a lot of people see 2000s fashion through rose tinted glasses. We always think of the best style of that era but forget there were a lot of not so great ones. I think people are equally open minded and creative today,” Larraga said.
TikTok influencer Vunik sporting her 2000s inspired fashion.
We’ve heard the voices of our younger generation and how drawn they are to the 2000s fashion comeback, which they’ve responded pretty well to. But what about the generation who lived the 2000s? What do they think about this comeback?
Class of 2010 graduate, Brittni Moles, spent her teenage years in the 2000s. Moles claims that these trends back in the 2000s spread through Myspace, magazines, or just simply going to the mall and seeing people wear clothes that encouraged others to buy.
According to Moles, the fashion from the 2000s had a lot to do with a variety of patterns of colors, lace tank tops, polos with a popped collar, Victoria Secret flared leggings, fuzzy UGG boots, and so on.
“2000s fashion was such a huge part of my high school days. It will be sad to see this one go but it is fun to see everyone have fun with it. It definitely brings back some memories and makes you remember what it was like to be a part of this world,” Moles said.
The comeback of the 2000s fashion trends have made it´s appearance, and the kids have been embracing and responding to the comeback pretty well. But will the comeback stick? Is Y2K officially Y2-Stay?
Hammond Central Student Natalie Arroyo is the senior class of 2026 who is fascinated with the comeback of the 2000s fashion. Arroyo stated that famous 2000s popstar Cassie Ventura is the perfect definition of 2000s fashion. According to Arroyo, her favorite trends from the 2000s are low rise jeans, colorful tops with flared fabric at the bottom that have slits on the side, and clothing with unique designs.
American singer, dancer, actress, and model Cassie
“I think that´s my favorite because it matches more of my body type and it´s so cute,” Arroyo said.
Arroyo concluded that she believes the comeback of the 2000s trends will last because it was the best era of fashion along with the 90s.
“I think everybody loves it. There’s not one person I know that doesn’t love the 2000s trend and the way they put their clothes together,” Arroyo said.
While many like Arroyo and Ashani are fully embracing this comeback trend, others are not so sure whether the craze over Y2K fashion will last or not. Some people believe that fashion is a cycle and the 2000s fashion trends will circle back at some point later on in the future, like other fashion trends have in the past.
The rise of the “67” trend takes over social media
The rise of the “67” trend takes over social media
published on February 12, 2026
by Reggenea Riley
The number 67 has spread rapidly across social media platforms, appearing in TikTok videos, Instagram captions and comment sections, as users worldwide attempt to decode its meaning. The trend gained popularity in late 2024 and surged through 2025, particularly among teenagers and young adults, according to reporting from major digital culture outlets.
The trend first gained traction on TikTok, where creators repeatedly used “67” without explanation. The lack of context sparked curiosity and engagement, pushing the trend onto more users’ feeds. As the posts multiplied, the number became a shared symbol rather than a literal reference.
Music played a role in the trend’s expansion. The rapper Skrilla released a song featuring the phrase “6-7,” which was widely used as audio in TikTok videos. As creators reused the sound, the number became more recognizable and easier to replicate, helping the trend spread across platforms.
According to Dictionary.com, the popularity of “67” reflects how “internet language” evolves. In its 2025 cultural analysis, the site described the term as a form of modern slang that functions more as a social signal than a word with a fixed definition. The organization noted that users often participate in trends simply to show belonging.
News outlet Forbes reported that the trend confused educators and parents, as students began repeating the phrase in classrooms and online discussions. The article explained that trends like “67” gain momentum because they require little explanation and encourage imitation.
Social media analysts say numeric trends thrive because they are easy to post, easy to copy and ambiguous enough to invite engagement.
The number does not carry a single meaning, which allows users to apply their own interpretation.
While some critics argue that viral trends lack substance, others see them as evidence of how digital culture shapes communication. Rather than relying on traditional language, users increasingly rely on symbols, numbers and short phrases to express identity online.
The “67” trend demonstrates how quickly internet culture can transform ordinary numbers into global symbols. What began as a repeated phrase in online videos has become a widespread digital reference, highlighting the influence of social media on modern communication.
The Pack Perspective
Student Editorial Edition
The Big Night: Is Prom Actually Worth the Cash?
The Big Night: Is Prom Actually Worth the Cash?
published on May 4, 2026
by Mariah Lewandowski
High school has plenty of regular days, but there’s one date on the calendar that everyone starts stressing about months in advance. It’s the time of year for suits, dresses, and the drama of who is going with who.
Prom is that one huge event everyone waits for—like a scene out of a movie where everything is supposed to be perfect. But behind the pictures and the lights, there’s a lot of stress about money and fitting in. Is this "one big night" actually worth the cost, or is it just an expensive way to hang out in fancy clothes?
Why People Show Up
For most students, this is the big goodbye before graduation. It’s one of the few times when school stress doesn't matter, and the whole grade hangs out together.
It’s basically a rehearsal for the real world, giving everyone a chance to practice the independence and social confidence they’ll need after high school. By stepping into a more "grown-up" setting, students get to try on the identities they want to have as adults before everyone officially goes their separate ways.
There’s something cool about seeing classmates trade their hoodies and beat-up shoes for tuxes and flowy dresses. It gives people a confidence boost, making them feel like a totally different person for a night.
For seniors, it’s the last time the entire class will be in one spot, making those photos at the park more than just social media posts—they’re the final proof of the bond the class shared before moving on to whatever comes next.
What it Actually Costs
Even if the vibe is good, the price can be a total dealbreaker. What used to be a simple school dance has turned into a massive production that costs a lot of money. For the 2026 season, the "average" student is looking at spending anywhere from $900 to $1,200 total when everything is added up.
To even get in the door, a ticket usually costs between $75 and $125. Then there is the outfit. A typical prom dress now averages around $300 to $600, plus another $75 to $200 just for alterations, so it actually fits.
For those renting a tuxedo, a full package is usually around $250. By the time you add $100 for a professional hair and makeup appointment, $60 for a nice dinner, and $30 for a corsage or boutonniere, you’ve spent a month's worth of paychecks on five hours of music.
The Stress Of It
It’s not just the money; the pressure to be "perfect" is a lot to handle. Between the big public "prom-posals" that can cost $50 just for the poster and flowers, and the need to look like a celebrity on social media, the fun part can get lost.
If someone doesn't have a date or a huge group to go with, the whole thing can feel more like a social test than a party.
Doing it Different
Luckily, the way people think about the dance is starting to change. Many students are realizing they don't have to spend a fortune to have a good time.
Thrifting has become a huge trend, and finding a unique, cool outfit for $100 or less is often seen as better than a basic rental. Also, more people are choosing to go with a "squad" of friends instead of worrying about having a date.
Doing hair and makeup at home or grabbing burgers instead of going to a fancy restaurant makes the night feel more real and a lot less stressful on the bank account.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, Prom is whatever a person decides it’s going to be. Anyone expecting a life-changing movie moment might be disappointed if the DJ is bad. But showing up to be with friends and looking a little nicer than usual is usually a good time. The key is just not to spend a whole college savings on one Saturday night.
Online Classes vs. In-Person Learning: What do kids really prefer?
Online Classes vs. In-Person Learning: What do kids really prefer?
published on May 4, 2026
by Da'John Blakes
At Hammond Central, the debate between online and in person school is not just about convenience. It is really about if students actually get anything done. While the idea of getting out of bed to join a call sounds easy, many students find that the lack of structure makes it nearly impossible to stay focused.
Most students at Hammond Central prefer in person learning over online classes. While online school offers flexibility, students like seniors Demarco Garcia and Micheal Leddesma argue that the in person classroom is necessary to stay awake, engaged, and productive.
"In the building, I stay awake and actually do the assignments. The cold, loud classroom provides a social bubble that keeps me from falling asleep," Garcia said.
Leddesma had similar views, stating that home distractions are often more powerful than school problems, giving people many chances to do "barely any work or none at all."
Without a teacher checking in with everyone, students say that the temptation to use AI apps like ChatGPT or Photomath is high, turning education into "easy work" rather than an educational accomplishment.
While the majority lean toward the usual classroom, some see an advantage in the online classroom.
Senior David Flores believes that online classes can help students balance more on their job and family matters better as they do not have to leave their home.
“For introverts, being in your own space can be good, although it requires a lot more self discipline,” Flores said.
Leddesma added that for those who can handle it, the self discipline of online school can make a student feel "more accomplished and grown."
However, not everyone agrees with this preference. This shift in perspective comes after years of everyone being over the pandemic.
"Online school is basically like a Fortnite battle pass. It is forced into every single part of education, and students are just bored with it,” Garcia said.
Even though digital learning has a bad rep now, most students agree they do better when they are actually around people instead of just staring at a screen all day.
Are high school students truly prepared for life after graduation?
Are high school students truly prepared for life after graduation?
published on March 13, 2026
by Da'John Blakes
As the Class of 2026 prepares to leave the K-12 system, they are facing a fast-shifting economy where the usual four-year degree path is being weighed against immediate job entry and trade certifications.
Right now, the data shows about 70% of high-schoolers are still planning on some kind of college, but the whole school-to-job pipeline is definitely changing. In places like Indiana, there’s a massive push for trade schools instead of just the usual four-year degree.
Nearly 72% of high school graduates feel only moderately, slightly, or not at all prepared for life after high school. This feeling isn't just in the students' heads.
A survey by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce found that 84% of hiring managers believe most high schoolers are not prepared to enter the workforce, citing gaps in professional skills like communication and time management. Plus, nearly half of all grads end up staying in their home state for at least five years after high school.
So, the question that many high school graduates are faced with is: Do you stay local where it’s safe and stable, or do you risk it and move away to find bigger opportunities?
Hammond Central seniors Gabriella Buck and David Flores, and junior Demear Hines are preparing for life after graduation with a mix of excitement, nerves, and distinct plans ranging from professional sports to far-off adventures.
Buck is looking for freedom and a life far from home, Flores aims for wealth to support his family, and Hines targets the NFL or an engineering degree. All three agree that staying connected via social media and planning for the future is essential. For these students, the transition represents a break from the lazy habits of high school and a leap toward financial stability.
Despite their different destinations, the underlying reason for these students is quite similar: money and stability. Buck admitted that her biggest fear is being homeless or being stuck in a career she hates.
This view is reflected by Flores, who is driven by the need to provide for his loved ones. Both seniors seem to view the real world as a high-stakes environment where financial independence is the ultimate goal.
The change also brings up a shift in personal responsibility. Flores reflected on his time in high school, saying that he struggled with being "lazy and irresponsible" at times, but he is entering the workforce with a newfound determination.
In comparison, Hines has had to maintain a strict sense of responsibility throughout his high school career to stay eligible for football. His Plan B is perhaps the most resilient of the group.
“When it comes to my goals, I will try and try again. Good things take time,” Hines said.
Flores and Hines plan to stay local initially, specifically with Hines looking towards Indiana State University, while Buck is ready to leave immediately for better opportunities.
Despite their varying levels of preparation, these seniors share a common fear of failure or being stuck in a life they hate, proving that while "good things take time," the pressure to succeed is already on.
Ultimately, the move from student to professional is less about having a perfect map and more about the willingness to keep moving. As Hines noted, “good things take time,” and success often requires the grit to try again and again.
Whether they are stepping onto a football field, into an engineering firm, or into the unknown of a new city, these students are proving that the Class of 2026 is defined not just by where they are going, but by their refusal to give up once they get there.
Should personal finance become a course in high school? Students seem to agree.
Should personal finance become a course in high school? Students seem to agree.
published on March 13, 2026
by Lakeyliona Tyler
While the catalog of classes that students get to choose from has a wide variety of choices, students at Hammond Central believe that personal finance, or financial literacy, should become one of those courses offered for students.
Junior Maria Reyes stated that personal finance teaches you how to save and it also helps you out in the real world.
“You’re going to need it regardless so it's going to help you to save and to budget,” Reyes said.
When asked how students would go about making this a possible course, Junior Aliyah Muhammad said she would present a proposal for the course to a sponsor.
“I think having a personal finance class would have a long term effect on students because information about finance is important in the real world,” Muhammad said.
Jekiya Bowens also stated that speaking to the school board would be a great way to try to make personal finance become a possible course.
“Having a course such as personal finance would have long term effects on students by teaching them how to effectively manage their money,” Bowens said.
In an article published by Jessica Dickler on CNBC.com, she talked to Christina Stoddard and Carly Urban from The National Endowment for Financial Education about a study they conducted.
In their article they talked about students entering college having limited financial experience while making complex decisions. The article examines a policy lever that may improve these decisions like required personal finance education in high school.
Bowens believes such a class could save students from making mistakes like spending too much using credit cards and ending up in debt.
Having a personal finance course that students can take in high school would be extremely beneficial. With studies proving that young adults lack this information, more schools should include the subject matter into curriculum to help students avoid financial mistakes that could have a lifetime of lasting consequences.
Trending after school Hammond hot spots and hangouts
Trending after school Hammond hot spots and hangouts
published on February 12, 2026
by Da'John Blakes
Let’s be real, if you ask any Hammond Central senior about Hammond’s vibe, you’re probably going to hear the word “mid” or “boring” within ten seconds. With the way people talk, one would think Hammond is a total ghost town. But if you actually look around after the final bell rings, students are not just disappearing into thin air: they are all just cycling through the same three or four spots to keep the peace.
If you are looking for the squad, the move is almost always food related. Fuerte Restaurant, a Mexican restaurant located across the street from HC at 5851 Calumet Ave, is basically the go-to place to eat after school. Whether it’s the tacos, deals or ice cream, that place is usually overflowing with students.
Both 12th graders, Gabriella Buck and Janae Stewart, agree that it is the best spot because it is close, cheap, and the food is actually good. Before it was Fuerte, it was Castillos, but the loyalty shifted once the sign changed.
The "active" crowd usually heads to the MLK park or the YMCA. Senior Dorian Patterson enjoys spending his time between both places. He believes the lure is mostly the gym and the weight room.
MLK park is located at 1200 Highland street, just a block away from HC. Students typically use the outdoor basketball courts in the warmer months. The new Hammond Family YMCA, also known as “The Y” officially opened in November of 2024. Located at 6532 Indianapolis Boulevard, the $70-$75 million facility was built on the former Woodmar Mall site and is designed to be the largest in the country.
When it comes to the overall vibe of the city, the reviews are pretty harsh. Buck didn't hold back by stating that Hammond is “very mid.” Stewart felt the same way, calling it a “ghost town” and mentioning that “there’s genuinely nothing special about it.”
Because of that, a lot of seniors like Patterson and Stewart find themselves heading to Gary, Calumet City, or Chicago just to find something to actually do.
At the end of the day, Hammond might not be the most "popping" city in the world, but it has its hidden gems if you know where to look. Whether you are catching a sunset view by the bridge across from school or hiding out in the library for some peace and quiet, there are places to relax.
The youth might call it boring, but as long as the food is good and the basketball courts are open, the young people of Hammond always find a way to make it work.
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