The following Whitko Community School students are Students of the Month for December 2024.
Zariah Coffelt – Whitko senior student of the month
Nominated by Antimony Fox, who said: Zariah is one of those students who may seem to fly under the radar because she does what she needs to do quietly. She always has her work done, can often help others, and is one of the few students who never have a problem reading out loud in class. She is also secretly a reader – upon discovering our shared interest in true crime, Zariah has updated me on podcasts she listens to and books she’s reading, leading to some pretty great discussions.
Sally Meyer – Whitko junior student of the month
Nominated by teacher Antimony Fox, who said: Sally moved here from out of state last year and underestimated her skills – she quickly switched to the honors English classes and has flourished. She contributes insightful thoughts on texts and has grown from a solid writer to an excellent one. She always has a wave for others in the hallway (often exaggerated until you wave back) and I can always count on that gesture to brighten my morning!
Kami Swartzlander – Whitko sophomore student of the month
Nominated by teacher Mike Hanback, who said: One of the benefits of having taught Junior High is that I get to have students twice – once in eighth grade and then in high school. I have had the privilege of watching Kami mature from eighth grade to her sophomore year. She has made a wonderful change. She works hard, does more than she has to (I seldom see kids take notes about videos I show) and have enjoyed seeing her grow from a shy middle school kid to a young woman who talks to me about many things, way more than curriculum. She is a joy to have in Earth Science class, and is working hard to do the best she can. And she could make a fortune if she sold gum to others instead of just giving it away.
Laila Streby – Whitko freshman student of the month
Nominated by teacher John Fullencamp, who said: Laila is a very good student. She has a wonderful work ethic and an eye for details, as she takes great notes in class. She uses her time in class wisely and gets most of her work completed during any work time that’s allotted. Laila is always attentive in class, asks quality questions, has a terrific attitude, and she is always willing to help those who need it. Laila is a solid student in my classroom and is deserving of recognition.
Elijah Landeros – Whitko eighth grade student of the month
Nominated by teacher Rochelle Leininger, who said: I have had Elijah in math for the last two years and have witnessed his growth. He has a strong work ethic and participates positively in class. He is respectful, an independent thinker, and laser-focused. As a result, he earned A’s on the first two pre-algebra tests and has achieved Wall of Fame honors. Elijah continues to impress me, and I look forward to seeing what he does in the second semester.
Jack Johnson – Whitko Career Academy student of the month
Nominated by teacher Jay Ocken, who said: I nominate Jack Johnson for Whitko Career Academy’s student of the month. Jack is a very persistent and focused learner. He leaves the WCA each day with new knowledge and skills. He seems to enjoy this type of learning and makes the best of each laboratory assignment and situation he is presented. Not only is Jack a self-directed achiever and problem solver, he is a friend to his peers. He is always there for his classmates who may have fallen behind on their course work.
Chris Abbott – South Whitley Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by third grade teacher Lorraine Kyler, who said: Chris is a team player in the classroom! He works diligently with a positive attitude. He collaborates well in small groups, and is a quiet problem solver! He shows respect to his classmates and teachers by being honest and trustworthy throughout the day. I am happy to have such a responsible student who is ready to learn every day!
Brooklyn Rodgers – Pierceton Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by first grade teacher Kennedy Musselman, who said: Brooklyn is so kind, she is always willing to help others! She is an excellent leader and I know that I can count on her to be an example to other students. She has also started to show impressive growth in her reading skills!