Huntington alumnus launches stay-in-school program
FOR RELEASE: Monday, July 7, 2008
Huntington, Ind.-Calvin D. Hawkins, Lake Superior Court judge and Huntington University alumnus, recently launched his "It's Cool to Stay In School" program in Lake County, Ind. The effort is designed to encourage young people to remain in the educational arena and not drop out. "Prior to my appointment to the bench, I read an article in The Indianapolis Star last summer underscoring that there are 1,700 suspensions in Indiana Schools each day," Hawkins said.
"The situation is appalling. If unabated, it can create a breeding ground for domestic terrorism. Consequently, I believe that persons of goodwill are required to do something to save the children."
Hawkins, who was appointed to the Lake Superior Court in East Chicago by Gov. Mitch Daniels in October 2007, has visited the following schools: Franklin and Harrison Schools in East Chicago, Beveridge, Charter School of the Dunes and West Side High School in Gary, St. Aquinas Elementary School in Merrillville and Edison Jr.-Sr. High School in Lake Station.
"My staff and I travel to these institutions to bring a message of hope and encouragement to these students. We generally utilize our lunch hour to engage in this effort; we talk to classes and interact with the students in the lunchroom and on the playground," Hawkins added.
The judge indicated that a first annual "It's Cool to Stay In School" run/walk will be a part of the stay-in-school campaign. Students will receive T-shirts with the campaign logo on it.
"Whatever we can do to encourage students we will do. Our staff is committed to this project. And we are inclusive," Hawkins said. "In other words, this is not just a North County endeavor; this includes South County too."
"Any school desiring us to come may call the Courthouse. We will make a way during lunch hour or after work hours."
Schools seeking more information about the "It's Cool to Stay In School" effort may contact court staff at (219) 398-2443.
