The following Whitko Community School students are Students of the Month for April 2026.

Lilee Staley, Kiaja Witmer and Penelope Birk – Whitko Junior Senior High School’s students of the month
Nominated by principal JD Maurer, who said this of the seventh grade students:

Lilee Staley, a student-athlete, is kind and always smiling. Her grades, attendance rate, and behavior are on point.

Kiaja Witmer has a big heart and always does things for others. Her emotional intelligence and excellent communication skills allow her to show her concern for how others feel. Her grades, attendance rate, and behavior also are on point.

Penelope Birk has a great sense of humor and she’s a great listener. She is very empathetic about her fellow classmates and teachers. And, again, her grades, attendance rate, and behavior are on point.

“I can’t say enough about these three young lady Wildcats,” Maurer said. “They embody what our junior high culture is, here at Whitko. Not only are they wonderful, kind, and great students, they write their principal and teachers notes of encouragement and affirmation on a weekly basis. They listen when others mostly do not, hear what others can’t, see a need and take action. For young people to maintain this level of emotional intelligence, kindness, and perception at the junior high environment is unbelievable and a true blessing.”

Viola Prigigallo – Whitko Career Academy student of the month
Nominated by teacher Hilary Singrey, who said of the junior, Viola Prigigallo has been an outstanding member of the Early Childhood Program this school year. As an exchange student from Italy, she has approached every aspect of her learning experience with determination, positivity, and a strong commitment to growth.

Despite the language barrier, Viola perseveres and initiates. She takes the time to ensure she fully understands the material by asking thoughtful questions and utilizing translation tools when needed. Her dedication to truly learning the content is commendable.

Viola is an active participant in class with a genuine eagerness to learn. In her field placement, she excels at engaging with young children and supporting their development. She goes above and beyond expectations, even stepping into a leadership role by guiding students through their Heggerty lesson when both classroom teachers were absent and substitutes were present.

Viola’s positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to take initiative make her a valuable member of our program. We are fortunate to have her in our classroom this year, and she is highly deserving of this recognition.

Ayden Veach – South Whitley Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by cafeteria staff members Sarah Bechtold, Emily Powell, Melissa Bollinger, Cierra Wilson and Mala Day. The cafeteria staff was given the privilege of selecting the Student of the Month for April. After contemplating several students, we’ve decided to select Ayden Veach. Ayden is a fifth grade student who exemplifies what a Bulldog truly is. He has a good sense of humor, he obeys the rules, and he is patient. The cafeteria can be a bit hectic at times and since the students come to lunch in alphabetical order, Ayden is near the end of the line. He never complains, nor does he seem irritated when he has to wait. One of his most appreciated gifts is his sense of humor! By the end of our serving day, we know we can have a fun conversation with Ayden and he is more than willing to tease back without crossing any lines. His maturity is always appreciated! Thank you Ayden for being such a great kid, bringing a smile to our faces, and making our jobs so enjoyable at the end of the day.

Jionni Craft – Pierceton Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by teacher Ryan Ousley, who said of the third grader: This student is often the first to walk through my doors each morning, which means I am lucky enough to get to start my day with the positive atmosphere he brings to our classroom. He is quick with a joke and a skilled prankster, both of which bring smiles to those around him. In class, he is quick to volunteer for tasks and when contributing to group lessons. Most importantly, his devotion to his studies has yielded fantastic growth in reading this year. I’m proud to present this award to him.