Savannah- This year has been a mix of challenges, growth, and a lot of reflection on the past three years of high school. Being a senior feels surreal, like I’m stuck between wanting to move on to the next chapter and not wanting to let go of the one I'm in. I’m enjoying every last and every first. Especially the clubs and activities I participate in: NHS, Student Impact, Chess, Academic Bowl, Band, and Jazz Band. While there’s pressure to figure things out, there are also moments that remind me to slow down and appreciate where I’m at in life.
Golf has continued to be a big part of my life. Some days I feel confident out there, and other days I’m just trying to survive the round. Either way, it’s taught me a lot about resilience and staying calm under pressure, as well as learning to have fun even when things aren’t going great. I couldn’t be more grateful for the girls on the team this year. I’ve been able to make new friends and talk with people I might never have met if it weren’t for golf. And also, thank you to Mr. Lasalle for putting up with us every day, our 6–7 jokes, and constant talking. Truly, thank you for being my coach and putting in all the time and effort to make it a great golf season.
IVVC has been a unique learning experience for me this year. It’s hands-on and focused on practical skills that directly relate to my future career as a nurse. I’ve had the opportunity to meet people from other schools, and I’m planning for life after graduation. I plan to attend Waubonsee Community College for nursing while continuing to volunteer at the Hinckley Fire Department and working as an EMT.
Outside of school, life’s been busy. Between online Waubonsee classes and trying to keep up with everything, I’ve also been thinking a lot about who I am and what matters to me. I’m more grateful than ever for my friends and family; they’ve been a huge support system.
Senior year isn’t just about finishing strong academically. It’s about preparing for what’s next, appreciating the people around me, and learning to trust myself. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited (and a little nervous) for what’s ahead. I’m so grateful for every staff member at HBR who helped make my high school experience great, especially Dr. Sonntag.
I recently had to fill out a survey for senior athletes, and we were asked to name our most influential person. This was my response:
“There have been so many people who’ve influenced me during my time at HBR, from teachers who pushed me beyond what I thought I could do, to friends who never let me face things alone. But if I had to choose one person, it would be Dr. Sonntag. She gave me opportunities I could’ve never reached on my own and always believed, not just in me, but in every student at HBR, that we’re more capable than we realize.”
So thank you, Dr. Sonntag, for always being there, supporting me and everyone around you.
Matthew- My senior year has been filled with opportunities that have helped me grow as a leader and as a person. Being a part of Student Impact, where I help lead a Bible study, has strengthened my faith and allowed me to encourage others in theirs. Serving as the FFA chapter president has given me the chance to guide my chapter, plan events, and set an example for younger members. I am also honored to be a member of the National Honor Society, which pushes me to uphold strong academics, service, leadership, and character. On top of these responsibilities, I have been blessed to play both golf and soccer at the same time, balancing practices, games, and schoolwork. I am also able to share the student voice with the Board of Education. Altogether, my senior year has been busy but rewarding, shaping me into someone ready to take on the next chapter of life. As I plan for the future, I intend to go to a 4-year university and study business management. I wouldn’t be able to do this all during my high school career if it weren’t for my family, teachers, and coaches. I can’t wait to see what else my senior year brings!
Alex- My senior year has started fairly busy, and I’d like to give some highlights from Homecoming, Student Council, and the soccer team. Homecoming was an eventful week as always. We had many students participate in spirit days, games, and bring royal spirit throughout the week. On Friday, September 26th, the Royalettes, Cheer squad, Band, and Soccer team traveled to the Elementary School and Middle School for an assembly, followed by the High School. Later that evening, we had our parade, taste of HBR, and a soccer game at 7:30, in which we caught a 4-1 win over Marengo. On Saturday, we had soccer and volleyball alumni games, which was a great wrap on homecoming for our HBR alumni. That night, the Student Council had the Homecoming Under the Sea Dance, which was a great turnout! Shoutout to the student council members as well as Mrs. Halverson and Mrs. Rich for making it all happen!
The soccer team now stands 15-3-2 as they advance to the Little Ten Championship and Regionals. Tuesday, October 7th, the Royals play the Indian Creek Timberwolves in the semi-finals of the Little Ten Tournament. The Boys came out hot and found the back of the net early, putting two goals on the scoreboard within the first ten minutes. After those two goals, the Royals and Sawyer Smith didn’t look back, as the defense locked down the field, and Sawyer went on to score all 6 of the goals for the Royals. The boys won 6-2 to advance to the Championship this Thursday, October 10th. Be sure to wish the team luck as they play to win a Conference Tournament and seek their Second Regional title in a row.
As my chapter at Hinckley Big-Rock is coming to a close, I would like to thank all of my club sponsors, coaches, and teachers for giving me opportunities that some kids dream of having. Obtaining these responsibilities is something I am going to greatly miss next year. The roles I serve in our district are very valuable to my character and have shaped me into a better version of myself. Putting my best foot forward every day is something I live by and will continue to live by after graduation. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities this district has given me.
Written By: HBR Board of Education Student Representative: Savannah McMurtrie, Matthew Badal and Alex Casanas