Central to host 3rd Annual Kermés Celebration on April 19
Joliet Central High School will host their third annual Kermés, a celebratory festival to honor the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez, on Thursday, April 19, in the Joliet Central Student Center. The “Sí Se Puede” (Yes We Can) Festival is a free event open to the community, alumni, parents, students, staff and the general public.
The family-friendly festival begins at 4:30 p.m. with a performance of the national anthem by the Joliet Central Band. In addition, the Kermés Committee will read the winning essays of the Follow Your Dream Scholarship recipients. Local community organizations and student groups will have exhibit tables throughout the floor, highlighting this year’s theme of “Cultural Preservation, Community Pride, and Volunteerism.”
Joliet Central teacher Jeff Grimes said, “We’re excited to invite the community into our school to celebrate one of Joliet’s greatest assets: its cultural and ethnic diversity.”
At 5 p.m., student and community performances will include: student performances, Irish dancers, and musical groups Los Coroneles, Tamborazo Rancho Bonito and Tamborazo Los Talibanes.
Afterwards, a Kermés celebration will be held that includes food, entertainment, music, dancing and more. It will be a cultural experience for all ages. Please visit the Joliet Central “Si Se Puede” Kermes – Cultural Fun Fair Facebook event page for the latest updates.
Joliet Central teacher Colleen Seneker said, “Historically, Joliet has been a destination for newcomers from all over the globe. We want people to celebrate and be proud of the diversity that strengthens our city and makes it so unique.”
The Joliet Central Kermes Committee also invites the community to come out to Chipotle on Jefferson St. on Tuesday, April 17 from 4-8 p.m. Please mention the JTHS Community Kermes when you order. The funds raised will benefit the Follow Your Dream scholarship.
JTHS students attend JJC Black Teen Leadership Summit
On March 23, over 200 Joliet Township High School students attended the Black Teen Leadership Summit at Joliet Junior College hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.
The students were encouraged to reflect on this year’s theme: “Stay Woke.”
After the welcoming remarks, students participated in gender-specific breakout sessions. The young men of JTHS attended a workshop led by Kent Wade about staying alert and “woke” in the 21st century, whereas the young ladies heard a presentation from Tayo Mbande entitled “This Black Body.” High school educators participated in a separate breakout session for their professional development.
The keynote speaker of the conference was Dr. Ericka Mingo who gave a riveting speech on systemic racism and the sense of urgency that is needed to combat these issues.
Joliet West Teacher Cassie Crim said, “Dr. Mingo’s presentation really struck a chord with myself and many of my students because we all learned the importance of analyzing propaganda. I was glad that I, along with Dean Thompson, was able to expose them to such a unique and uplifting experience.”
Joliet Central Teacher Ernest Crim said, “It’s rare that our African American students experience something educationally that is uniquely for them. Likewise, it’s rare that they are exposed to positive images of their culture and heritage in today’s society. JJC did a great job again of reminding our kids of their unlimited potential and prestigious history.”
Following the keynote speech, students participated in a Resource Fair featuring local organizations.
Joliet Central Symphonic Band to perform at Superstate Band Festival
Congratulations to the Joliet Central High School Symphonic Band for qualifying to perform in the Superstate Band Competition held at the University of Illinois on Friday, May 4, and Saturday, May 5. Being accepted into this festival is the band equivalent of playing in the state finals for a varsity sport.
To qualify, high school bands submitted an audition recording no less than 12 minutes and no more than 20 minutes of music that they’ve worked on from the beginning of the academic year. Only a handful out of over 100 bands that applied were selected from Illinois.
From the live performances on May 4 and 5, a distinguished panel of university band directors will choose an “Honor Band” from the day’s performers.
For the Joliet Central Band, this is their 18th overall appearance at Superstate, and their second under the direction of Mr. Stinson.
Ladarius Young, Senior Drum Major, said, “Being accepted to perform at SuperState is our dedication and determination brought to life. It’s an honor to be a part of a group with my friends that works so hard to get to where we are. We’re looking forward to representing Joliet Central and our city.”