Sydney Kinder, a senior at Newton Community High School, wears her Illinois State Scholar distinction as both an honor and a testament to years of hard work and determination. With plans to study biology on a pre-optometry track, Sydney is ready to turn her academic achievements into a career rooted in compassion and care.

“I’ve always wanted to do something in the medical field,” Sydney says. “But nursing and being a doctor seemed too intense for me. Optometry is the perfect balance—I get to help people without the gruesome parts of medicine.”

Sydney’s aspirations have deep familial roots. Her grandmother, a leader at Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital, inspired her interest in healthcare, while her mother’s work as a Title I teacher instilled a deep respect for education and service. “My mom and grandma have always shown me how important it is to help others,” Sydney reflects. “It’s part of who I am.”

Another major influence is her older sister, currently studying to become a dentist. While Sydney admires her sister’s dedication, she deliberately chose a different path. “I didn’t want to follow the same route,” she says with a laugh. “I wanted something that felt uniquely mine.”

Sydney’s academic foundation is built on a rigorous schedule of advanced classes, including dual-credit chemistry and calculus. Among her favorite teachers is Mr. Bower, who also coaches the track team. “He’s great at making tough concepts understandable,” she says. “And he keeps class fun with his sense of humor.”

Music has also been a significant part of Sydney’s life. A French horn and mellophone player since fifth grade, she’s been a dedicated member of the marching band. “The mellophone is like a big trumpet,” she explains. “It’s perfect for parades and marching performances.” Sydney also plays piano, a skill she shares with her church community. “Music has always been something I enjoy, and it’s a way to give back,” she says.

On the track field, Sydney is a powerhouse. Specializing in long jump, triple jump, and relays like the 4x4 and 4x2, she’s earned multiple state medals and aims to add more this spring. “I’m hoping for another state medal and maybe a sectional championship,” she says.

Beyond her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Sydney values the sense of community that defines Jasper County Schools. “I’ve been here my whole life,” she says. “It’s a small, close-knit community where you know everyone. That’s something I’ll always cherish.”

Looking ahead, Sydney plans to attend Eastern Illinois University for her undergraduate studies before pursuing an optometry program at Indiana University. Her goal is to return to Newton and give back to her hometown, potentially working alongside local optometrist Dr. Wolf at Wolf Eye Care. “I want to help people in my community see better, literally and figuratively,” she says.

Sydney’s faith is another guiding force in her life. Raised in a church-going household, she credits her faith for shaping her values and outlook. “It’s about making the world a little better, one step at a time,” she says.

For Newton Community High School and the wider Jasper County community, Sydney Kinder’s journey exemplifies the power of compassion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference. As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her life, she carries with her the lessons and values that have shaped her into the remarkable young woman she is today.