What’s recently happened?
On Wednesday, April 23, La Porte High School (LPHS) hosted its annual Career Fair, welcoming hundreds of students to the main and small gyms for a hands-on look at life after graduation.
Roughly 400 students participated in the event, which featured nearly 50 booths representing various businesses, trades, military branches, and educational opportunities. The fair was organized by LPHS English and Technical Communications Teacher Jamie Vincent, LPHS Construction Educator Jeremy Ruff, and Erik Nelson from La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP).
“I firmly believe that the more information you have, the better prepared you are to plan your life,” Vincent said. “I want students to know about the amazing opportunities available right here in our own community.”
Students had an hour to walk around both gyms and visit booths that matched their interests and goals. Each student received a folder containing a floor map, a list of each company and its services, note paper, and a guide with tips for asking questions and making a good impression. LPHS staff also assisted students throughout the event to ensure they made the most of the experience.
Vincent’s technical communication class helps students explore careers, improve interview and workplace skills, and develop long-term goals. Their final exam includes a detailed personal and professional plan for life after high school.
“This class isn’t just about resumes—it’s about helping students grow, emotionally and professionally,” Vincent said. “My goal is to support them in every way I can so they leave LPHS prepared for real life.”
Looking ahead, Vincent hopes to expand next year’s career fair to include the upper level of the main gym and invite at least 20 additional companies.
“I want every student to walk in and find something that connects with them—something that helps them start building their life,” she said. “That’s what this is all about.”
What’s coming up?
Graduation is just around the corner at LPHS.
Class of 2025 will celebrate its big day at Kiwanis Field on Thursday, June 12, at 7 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will move to the LPHS Gym at the same time and date.
Each student will receive six tickets for the outdoor ceremony and four tickets if it is moved indoors. Attendance is free.
Students have been diligently working to fulfill their graduation requirements, earning sufficient credits and courses, completing FAFSA forms, and finishing college and career applications
“This is a very diverse group in terms of their interests,” LPHS Associate Principal Jennifer Hunt said. “It’s been a joy working with them these past four years, and I’m excited to celebrate all they’ve accomplished.”
Drew Bush has been named valedictorian, while Liam Lilly has earned the title of salutatorian. Additionally, Jamie Vincent will be the featured teacher speaker at the event.
Seniors will also participate in the annual graduation walk on Thursday, May 22. They will visit their former elementary schools to inspire younger students and reflect on their achievements.
Staff spotlight:
A simple smile can make someone’s day better.
LPHS Front Desk Secretary Jenny Hartson has become a friendly and familiar face for students, staff, and visitors. She was honored as the La Porte Community School Corporation (LPCSC) Employee of the Year in April for her outstanding service.
“I never expected to win this award, and I feel completely honored,” Hartson said. “Knowing I am here alongside so many legends of education, I am highly thankful to have been thought of. I will continue to row this boat with a grateful heart.”
Hartson, a 2008 graduate of LPHS, is currently in her second year working in the front office. Before returning to La Porte, she studied at Berklee College of Music, attended cosmetology school in Chicago, and gained experience in retail by helping to run a Levi’s store in California.
Her true passion, however, is the people she gets to be around.
“I feel honored to be at this desk,” Hartson said. “It’s not just about phone calls and calendars—it’s about meeting people where they are and helping however I can.”
Beyond being known for her warm energy and big heart, Hartson supports students in countless ways. She is active in the Slicer Mentor Program, helps coach the Unified Track Team, and connects with students who visit her desk daily.
“One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Excellence is not an act, but a habit.’ That used to hang in the choir room, and now I talk about it with my son,” she said. “We wake up each day and make the choice to be better than we were the day before.”
Hartson also enjoys her love for antiques, paddle boarding, and cheering on her son at sporting events. For her, being a Slicer is about more than a job—it’s about giving back to the community that raised her, one student at a time.
“I believe you carry joy in your heart,” she said. “You can still feel other emotions, but joy remains. I try to share that with everyone who walks through our doors.”
Student spotlight:
As the Class of 2025 prepares to take its final steps through the halls of LPHS, several seniors reflected on the people, memories, and lessons that shaped their time here.
Elizabeth Wallace, a member of the Girls' Basketball Team, will attend Indiana University South Bend (IUSB) to study Medical Imaging Technology. She’s had great guidance throughout high school that will prepare her for the next step in her journey.
“Mrs. Brenda Cooper has made the strongest impact on me,” she said. “She’s been a guiding light in my academic career since freshman year. She was always there when I needed help with homework, advice, or someone to vent to.”
Mia Mendoza is a member of the volleyball team who will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study human biology and become a pediatrician. She found confidence through the support of her teachers.
“Mrs. Tabitha Hughes helped me realize I have more talent than I thought I did,” Mendoza said. “Her encouragement showed me I’m more than enough.”
Cooper Scroggin, who will attend Valparaiso University to double major in physics and chemistry with plans to become a nuclear chemist, recalled a memorable conversation with chemistry teacher Starr Rice that left a lasting impression.
“I told her that I was worried about the world, and she said, ‘Your generation is going to save it.’ That’s a quote I’ll carry with me through college and grad school,” Scroggin said.
Drew Bush, a member of the tennis team and the Interact Club, credits AP Chemistry teacher John Sherrick with shaping his mindset as he prepares to attend the University of Notre Dame to double major in finance and political science.
“He taught me the importance of accountability,” Bush said. “He showed me that hard work pays off, and I’ll take those lessons with me after graduation.”
Many students are going to miss the vibrancy of the LPHS community. Events like the football games and student events have a special place in the hearts of the seniors.
“The senior class always went all out.” Wallace said, “There’s something really special about the school spirit in the Slicer community.”
Emily Jones, a four-year member of the dance team who plans to study exercise science at Trine University, cherishes the friendships she made at LPHS.
“I’ll miss the bonds I’ve made—not just with friends but with teachers and staff. My time here was worthwhile, and I wouldn’t have spent it any other way,” Jones said.
Cherished memories have played a significant role in shaping the students into the individuals they are today.
One of Scroggin’s favorite memories involved laughing with AP Research Teacher Michael Tuholski over a Jim Carrey movie scene.
“We laughed so hard we cried,” Scroggin said. “No one else knew what we were talking about—we just looked insane.”
Skylar Fettinger, who was involved in nearly every corner of the school—including marching band, robotics to choir, winter guard, and tech club—will attend Indiana State University to study aeronautics. However, the highlight of Fettinger’s high school experience was marching band.
“It was where I met some of my best friends and had my biggest breakthroughs,” Fettinger said. “It gives you a sense of purpose. We really became a family out there.”
The seniors have shaped their own experience and growth. They want to send a message to the incoming freshmen.
“Try new things,” Wallace said. “Whether it’s a class, a club, or a sport—just go for it. These four years go by faster than you think, so enjoy the journey.”
“Don’t let what others say define who you are,” Mendoza said. “You are unique. Be different. Live your life for you.”
“Talk to your teachers,” Scroggin said. “Most of them genuinely want to help you.”
“Value your time here,” Jones said. “You’ll be graduating before you know it.”
“High school doesn’t have to be a drama-fest,” Fettinger said. “Find real friends, be kind, and don’t worry—none of us really know what we’re doing. Just keep moving forward and make something of yourself.”
“Give it your all,” Bush said.
As they prepare to say goodbye, these seniors aren’t just looking back—they're stepping forward with pride, purpose, and a legacy of leadership.
