Helena Spychala
NCHS CLASS OF 2017
In today’s post, we are thrilled to celebrate Helena Spychala: a former prom queen, a Crooked Creek student award winner and namesake, and a beloved member of the Washington Township Schools community. She continues to shatter stereotypes about Down Syndrome while uplifting everyone around her. Her many achievements demonstrate the power of kindness, resilience and inclusion.
Q&A
What are you up to now?
After North Central, I attended the SITE program at IUPUI. I learned how to ride the city bus independently and learned how to navigate around campus. During the summer and my second year at the program, I interned as a greeter at the Hyatt and also volunteered at the Irsay YMCA. Since completing the SITE program, I now work part-time at the Hyatt as a laundry attendant, and enjoy spending time with my co-workers.
How did North Central impact and shape who you are today?
I had some great teachers along the way that helped me learn and grow! Mr. El was the music teacher at Crooked Creek when I was in elementary school. He presented me with an achievement award “for exemplary character and perseverance while overcoming tremendous obstacles in the pursuit of knowledge”. Since my award, Crooked Creek has presented other students with the Helena Spychala Award! It is an honor to be recognized and remembered for my diligence.
WHAT IS your favorite memory from North Central?
I was lucky to be on the Junior Prom Court and honored to be voted as the Prom Queen by my peers! That was a very special night and something I will always remember!
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