The following Whitko Community School students are Students of the Month for May 2026.
Luke Warner – Whitko Junior Senior High School’s student of the month
Nominated by teacher Amber Mynhier, who said, “Luke Warner is truly deserving of recognition as Student of the Month due to his exceptional work ethic, character, and positive impact on those around him. He is incredibly hard-working, consistently putting in extra effort to overcome challenges. Despite these difficulties, this freshman approaches his work with determination and perseverance, never complains and always strives to do his best.
“He has a remarkable talent for building and creating with his hands, expressing himself in meaningful and impressive ways through projects such as woodworking and crafting unique items like rings made from spoons. His creativity and skill set him apart and demonstrate his ability to think in innovative, out-of-the-box ways.”
“In addition to his academic efforts, he is one of the most kind, generous, and respectful students I have had the pleasure of working with. He treats peers and staff with genuine kindness and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Though he is soft-spoken, his words are thoughtful and insightful, reflecting a high level of emotional maturity. He comes to school consistently, maintains a positive attitude, and brings a smile each day. His quiet leadership and eagerness to support others make him an invaluable member of our school community.”
Ethan Perkins – Whitko Career Academy student of the month
Nominated by teacher Taylor Besgrove, who said, “Ethan Perkins is a student who consistently shows up ready to learn and gives his best effort. This junior works hard every day and approaches his assignments with a positive attitude, never complaining, even when tasks are challenging. Ethan is always willing to lend a hand to his classmates, making him a reliable and supportive presence in the classroom. He has a strong interest in photo editing and enjoys using his creativity to improve his work. Throughout the course, he has shown a genuine desire to apply what he has learned in business class to real-world opportunities. Ethan is especially interested in pursuing an internship with Whitko IT, where he hopes to build on his skills and gain hands-on experience. His dedication, work ethic, and willingness to help others make him stand out as a student. Ethan’s future goals reflect both his ambition and his commitment to continued growth.”
Cecilia Wendel – South Whitley Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by Related Arts teachers Thomas Weber, Tammy Sprunger, Krystalle Johnson and Carrie Laukhuf, who said of the Kindergartener, “Congratulations to Cecilia Wendel for being chosen as our student of the month for May. Cecilia works hard and stays focused in all of her related arts classes. She always tries her best and has a positive attitude. She is kind to everyone of her classmates and often helps without being asked. Cece greets everyone with a smile and is excellent at making others feel included. Great job Cecilia!”
Ty Ward – Pierceton Elementary School’s student of the month
Nominated by second grade teacher Maddie Moss, who said, “I am so excited and proud to nominate Ty as my student of the month. He has made such huge growths this school year, not only academically, but by becoming a hardworking, responsible student. He comes in each day ready to learn. Even when things are hard, he doesn’t give up and he asks questions when he is unsure of something, so he can do his best. Ty is also a kind friend and is always ready to give a lending hand to me or his peers. He encourages others around him to follow directions and make better choices in a nice manner. I am so proud of Ty’s determination to grow as a student this year.”
