Student Spotlight

June 2025 

Kostya Levitsky

I have had numerous interactions with Kostya this year. Some are due to his role as student council president, some have to do with him coming to me to make the playground a more fun and safe place for our students, and some as a reflective student around evidence-based grading. In every single interaction, I have found Kostya to be incredibly thoughtful- polite and honest- upfront and reflective - he is solutions-oriented and a leader amongst his peers."  ~ Principal Christiansen
Kostya's teachers agree. One of them added, "Kostya is a very deep thinker. He loves to have long philosophical conversations. He always gives me something to think about. I can't wait to see what career he chooses! He has so many amazing abilities."

May 2025

Lorelei Lawry

Lorelei is known for her leadership, drive, and kindness. In the classroom, she leads with her voice and her example—always prepared, thoughtful, and engaged. Her peers respect her willingness to contribute, share ideas, and approach learning with pride and dedication. She plays an active role in several organizations, including Interact Club, Student Council, and Sources of Strength, where she works to foster a culture of wellness and inclusion throughout the school. From classroom discussions to school-wide campaigns, Lorelei Lawry exemplifies what it means to be a Viking: thoughtful, hard-working, and committed to making a positive impact.

 ~ High School Administrators and Teachers

 

April 2025

Satchel Benzing

“Satchel’s positive attitude, kind, caring demeanor make him a beacon of light at the Intermediate Center. His quiet nature and strong work ethic make him a daily role model for his peers. Satchel listens attentively, participates actively, and tackles tasks independently. He is also always willing to help others. With a growth mindset, Satchel perseveres through challenges and stays optimistic, bringing positive energy to every situation. His infectious smile, great sense of humor, and natural leadership skills exemplify the Viking way, making him a beloved and respected classmate.” - Ms. Katie Hauge, Intermediate Center Principal 

March 2025

Evan Marklein

"Evan Marklein is a wonderful role model in the Early Learning Center and Primary Center world. He knows what’s expected and he strives for his best in everything he does. He is kind, polite, friendly, helpful, and has a genuine concern for others. His gentle smile lets those around him know he’s happy to see them. He has a quiet demeanor, yet he participates often in class where everyone can learn from his thoughts and ideas. He is a good friend that others enjoy playing and interacting with. You can count on him to be respectful, responsible, and ready throughout each day. Evan is a shining example of what being a Mount Horeb Viking is all about." - Mrs. Rohowetz - First Grade Teacher

 

February 2025

Giovantae Smith

Alongside Hearts and Hands, the Mount Horeb Area School District was also pleased to recognize Giovantae Smith as a Board of Education Spotlight Student. Mrs. Sarah Brouwer, Gio's teacher, shared that "Gio is an incredibly kind and caring friend. He shows empathy for all his peers and always looks for a solution when he notices a peer is having a strong feeling. Gio is determined. He has a growth mindset and is always enthusiastic about learning new things. I am so grateful to have Gio in my class this year, and I cannot wait to see all of the great things he accomplishes throughout the rest of the year and beyond."

January 2025

Alex Champman

Sophomore Alex Chapman was recognized for his contributions to Mount Horeb High School. Alex displays exemplary leadership, patience, and kindness. You will often find him saying “hello” or “thank you” to teachers, helping out a fellow classmate, or shaking the hands of adults to introduce himself. Alex not only is a good classmate but is also a team player. He is a competitive basketball and baseball player who also shows great sportsmanship. Alex always goes above and beyond to help other students feel heard and welcomed. He truly makes an impression on many students and staff at MHHS. MHHS teachers have said,  “To say Alex is a joy to work with is a gross understatement.” The District is so excited to see what impact Alex will make after his time at Mount Horeb High School. 

DECEMBER 2024

Olin Olson

December’s student spotlight is eighth grader Olin Olson! Middle School staff describes him as a positive and dedicated leader who consistently strives for excellence in his work. He is respectful and kind to both staff and fellow students, and this is especially evident in the classroom. In class, Olin is always focused, ready, and able to answer questions, demonstrating his strong understanding of the material. He takes charge during group projects and activities, naturally stepping into a leadership role and setting a great example for others. His ability to help and encourage his peers, both in and out of the classroom, highlights his strong character and leadership qualities.
In addition to his academic strengths, Olin is a supportive and friendly presence in every classroom. He actively participates in lessons and seeks help when needed, always showing a willingness to learn and grow. Olin makes an effort to include everyone, ensuring that no one feels left out. His positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to lead by example make him a well-rounded student, friend, and leader. 

 

November 2024

Savannah Weigel

 "Oh, Savannah! Always so sweet and kind. Willing to give a helping hand to those who need it and is always geared up and open to learn something new." - Mrs. Angie Brauns
"Savannah is a dependable student who consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to her education. She's not only eager to participate but also takes her responsibilities seriously. As a natural leader, she readily offers her support to classmates, making her an excellent role model for others. Her dedication and willingness to help truly sets her apart." - Ms. Amanda Sieja

October 2024

Carter Dorsey

We launched this year's slate of outstanding Vikings with Carter Dorsey. Carter was selected by the Primary Center staff because, as Principal Johnson told us, "Carter has worked so hard to be respectful, responsible, and ready since the school year started. She knows her routine and follows it to a tee and has taken on even more responsibility as a 2nd grader! If she has a wondering about something changing (which happens a lot at the beginning of the year as we learn a new schedule), she asks calmly and respectfully. She is a patient partner to other students in her class and reminds them in a kind way when they are off track or are not following the group plan. Lastly, she consistently participates in class, not only sharing straightforward answers to questions but also makes really strong connections with prior learning and things in her own life."

June 2024

Alexa Vesely

She is the student you wish you had 28 of in each class." "Alexa is a wonderful person!  Caring, compassionate, and focused on making her school community a better place. Alexa had a vision to establish a HOSA chapter in our school and through the hard work of her and our HOSA members we've established a successful 1st year chapter!" "As Alexa's advisor for Student Council, I can always count on her to help with any task! Alexa is always kind and helpful, not only to me but to the other members of the council as well. Her positivity helps raise everyone's spirits. She has become someone I know will follow through with her commitments, and does everything with full effort and attention to detail. Alexa is amazing and is such an asset to the council and the high school!"

May 2024

Emma Peterson

Emma always has a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard. Emma is the kind of girl who can work with anyone and is willing to stand up for others. Emma is such a positive influence in our Middle School. She always puts forth her best effort with classwork. She will ask questions and participate in classroom discussions. She is also kind and helpful to others. Emma is a wonderful human. She is kind, compassionate, and thoughtful.

April 2024

Kamryn Reynolds

There are so many things about Kamryn that make her a great person and one of those things is that she has Down Syndrome. Since Kamryn was in 4K, she and her parents advocated for her to be in the general education classroom full-time with her peers. With their encouragement, and other families like the Reynolds, we changed our classrooms to better support students with disabilities. Starting in kindergarten, Kamryn has been in co-taught classrooms with two teachers to help her grow and meet her needs. As a fifth grader now, Kamryn has developed great friendships and peer connections, and she is a full member of her classroom community just like her classmates. Not only did Kamryn change school for herself and her friends in fifth grade, she changed the Intermediate Center for other students with disabilities who learn better and grow more when they learn in the classroom and have a team of teachers working together.

March 2024

Aysen Allen

Aysen is a wonderful example of what it means to be a Viking. He is continuously respectful, responsible and ready throughout the school day. Aysen demonstrates being respectful as he is always ready for instructions. He also works hard to be a first time listener, following adult directions. Aysens makes sure no one is ever alone. If a classmate needs a partner, he always invites them to join him or the group he is with. He is always among the first to volunteer to help clean up at the end of the day (even when it's a mess he didn't make!)  ~ Hannah Severson, 2nd Grade Teacher

February 2024

Leo Beer

"Leo goes above and beyond!" said Tara Deglow, Leo's teacher at Academy of Little Vikings 4K & Childcare. "He is extremely caring and considerate of everyone. He is an amazing friend to have and is a hard worker. Leo is a super-star student! He is a great problem solver when social problems arise and seeks to find win-win solutions for everyone!"

January 2024

Laurel Helland 

We are excited to celebrate Laurel Helland, an 11th-grade student, as our January student spotlight. Laurel is involved in more clubs, activities, and sports than conceivable. She does all of this while maintaining over a 3.9 GPA and being in multiple AP courses. Laurel is a kind and intelligent student who always puts forth her best effort. She leads by example in a quiet yet powerful manner, inspiring those around her through her consistent dedication, unwavering work ethic, and thoughtful decision-making. -Adam Brager, Social Studies Teacher. Laurel brought a positive attitude every day to practice and meets. Some practices were in the pouring rain and others were in 90 degrees. No matter the weather Laurel had a smile on her face and could be found laughing with her friends. -Piper Atnip, Cross Country Coach.

December 2023

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Charlotte Carroll 

This fall Charlotte proposed, advertised, and organized a new club. This club is called the Friendship Federation. She began this because she saw a need for her peers. Charlotte told us, “This is a student-run organization that helps encourage students to make new friends at their own rate and learn how to embrace themselves.” She has three main goals for this organization: build confidence in students’ friendship skills; find a friend and learn new techniques for meeting peers; and be successful with skills in meeting peers. Charlotte and has been recognized by her team of teachers for her compassion, initiative, and action.

November 2023

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Matt Haight

“Matthew has the biggest heart; he cares tremendously for his friends, teachers, and family.” -Mrs. Maring
In his three years at the IC, Matt has matured into a self-aware, hardworking 5th grader who is kind to all. I am so proud of him!” Mrs. Handrick

October 2023

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Fiona Ellis

“From the first day of school Fiona has not only helped a student in her class who sustained an injury over summer, but she also is seen playing with students on the playground when she observes that they have no one else to play with. She always goes out of her way to be kind and helpful to everyone.” Mrs. Tricia Gloudemans 1st Grade Teacher

July 2023

Ethan Fendrick

Ethan, an incoming junior, was lauded for his civic mindedness and work ethic. He has done a super job of sharing his fellow classmates' perspectives, celebrating their accomplishments, and serving as an ambassador for our Board. Thank you, Ethan - We look forward to your continued leadership in the upcoming school year. - Board of Education members

June 2023

Emma Olsen

 "Emma is one of the most kind, enthusiastic, and involved students I have ever had the chance to work with. She is always willing to go above and beyond to give extra support to anyone who needs it and has shown herself to be a true mentor to new DECA members this year."
Mrs. Allison Carroll DECA’s faculty sponsor

May 2023

Amelia Soltis

“Amelia is a natural leader in the classroom and often offers to help others out. She is a student I can count on, she's a curious person who wants to learn and grow, and I believe she has a sort of unofficial leadership role on the wrestling team with younger girls who are participating. She is a great kid.” - Mrs. Aquino

April 2023

Charlotte Diercks

“Charlotte entered a poem into The Greater Dane Anthology contest. Her poem scored “perfect.” Her selection competed with most schools in Dane County! Charlotte's work will be included in the published anthology. Charlotte is described as, “a hardworking student who excels in both reading and math too!”
--Fifth Grade Teacher Mrs. Gervasi

March 2023

Victor Vargas-Santos

“Victor is kind, compassionate, and respectful to everyone in the building. He goes out of his way to help others and his teachers in the classroom. When something needs to get done, we don't even have to ask, Victor is already doing it.”
Primary Center Teachers Brianna Fox and Scott Pelton

February 2023

Finley Bader

“Finley has continuously stood out as a positive peer model in the 4K classroom. Throughout his interactions and play he models and encourages his peers how to interact and play. Finley is always thinking about others and allows everyone to be part of what he is doing, never excluding individuals. He shows great empathy when others are upset. He is kindhearted, compassionate, helpful, and polite. Beyond all of these great attributes, Finley is genuinely a wonderful individual, with a great personality and wonderful sense of humor.” --Agape Christen Pre-School teachers Anita Symons and Cathy Fountas 

Callie Casey

“Callie is a great Super Friend to all the children in our class as well as children in our other classrooms. She is kind, caring, empathetic and goes out of her way to welcome new friends to our school. She is well-liked. In addition to being a great friend, she is also extremely helpful in taking care of our classroom!” -- Hearts and Hands teachers Theresa Peterson and Joleen Hocking

January 2023

Patrick Chappell

Patrick was selected for the Board’s Student Spotlight because he has shown determination, initiative, and action to make the school experience better. While many students may have wonderful, thought provoking ideas, Patrick has taken that to another level by acting on them. Particularly with his work to initiate a Black, Indigenous, People of Color Alliance. Earlier this fall, Patrick reached out to 50 middle school staff members, teachers, support staff, kitchen staff, and administrators with the hopes of developing a student alliance. Patrick stated, “School should have a time for the students of color to have a place to discuss how to improve the representation of minorities better and here's why. We full-heartedly believe that students of color would like the ability to share and have their ideas heard. While also giving other students an opportunity to learn more about our history, cultures, and traditions.”

December 2022

Garrett Waefler

Garrett was described as a shining example of a Mount Horeb Area High School student. He works hard for Dave Jones as a youth apprentice electrician. Getting up way before dawn and arriving on the jobsite ready to work is just part of his everyday life. When speaking with him on the jobsite, he is confident in his work ethic and abilities. He is a great mentor to other young employees and treats his fellow workers with extreme respect while also portraying a sense of humor. We were told, “Garrett is a cross between Rip on Yellowstone and Andy Griffith - Loyal, trustworthy, truly kind and extremely respectful.”

November 2022

Arvin Li

"Arvin is such a delight! He is always willing to participate and provides awesome discussions to our community! Arvin is always ready to learn and offer a great sense of humor to our classroom environment!”  “He is kind to everyone, respectful, loves to share his ideas, helps others, works hard... he's a student that every teacher would want in their classroom!” - Fifth Grade Teacher Mrs. Liska and Fourth Grade Teacher Mrs. Sadkovich

October 2022

Rory Boughton

"Rory is constantly helping others. She gave up her dominoes during math work time when another student was in need. She shares her materials if there are students who do not have them. Rory also lets other students have a turn before she does. Rory is a very selfless student and a wonderful team player." - First Grade Teacher Ms. Kaitlyn Wojcik

June 2022

Gwenna Mlsna

“Gwenna is a student that provides a welcoming presence for any student that she comes in contact with. She is very involved in our music program and is a strong advocate for student wellness and DEI [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion]. Gwenna is an active member of our school community and also the Village of Mount Horeb. We are so lucky to have Gwenna as a student and leader at Mount Horeb High School. We look forward to continuing to see Gwenna continue to grow and where their interests will take them.“ - High School Assistant Principal Talisa Corcoran

May 2022

Jackson Loger

“Jackson has an easy going personality that highlights his leadership and positivity. In addition to being a caring and responsible person, he is also a conscientious student. He has earned a 4.0 in every quarter of school so far this academic year.” - Associate Principal Melissa Hanson

"He is a conscientious student, works well with others in lab groups in his science class, and participates in class. He is a friendly face that I can always count on. I chose Jack to be a science class "buddy" to a new student entering our district in the fall because I knew he would be kind and helpful." - Kellie Aquino, Teacher

April 2022

Melody Radermacher

“Melody was selected because she demonstrates an amazing growth mindset, always working hard to learn and build her skills in the classroom. She is also a good friend to others; she is kind, respectful, and happy to work with any of her classmates. You can count on Melody to do her best and share a smile with you while she's doing it. She uses her gifts and talents to make the IC a better place!” -Principal Katie Hauge

March 2022

Clover Ingold 

Clover is a leader and excellent role model for doing things the "Viking Way". Since the start of the year, Clover has been a "go to" peer. Clover positively impacts the school experience through her willingness to help in whatever way she can. She consistently follows the 3 Rs - Respect, Responsible, and Ready. One thing we admire most about Clover is her kindness and care towards ALL students. She sets such an excellent example. Mrs. Baumgart & Mrs. Fox

February 2022

Luka Burbank

Luka is a leader in the classroom. She is kind, considerate, and very helpful. If she sees someone that needs help she will stop what she is doing and help them. If someone is feeling sad she will check-in with them. She enjoys a challenge, and uses her problem-solving skills around the classroom and in relationships.
“It is so special to see Luka’s leadership skills at such a young age.”  Ms.Schneider, 4K

January 2022

Grant Haroldson

Grant is a member of the Class of 2022. He was selected because of his leadership skills. Principal Cody Lundquist told me, “Grant is such a positive leader in our building. He sets such a positive example for others to follow. He engages all students in such a warm and inviting way.” Many of you who attend this year’s musical will have seen Grant’s standout performance.

December 2021

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Olivia Turk

Olivia is an empathetic, caring person who makes sure others' feelings and needs are put first. She looks for ways to help people overcome problems or complete tasks or accomplish goals.  

Olivia brings a positive energy to Mount Horeb Middle School everyday. She is an outstanding role model for her classmates and shows responsibility in all of her classes. She is always respectful to students and staff. Olivia is also kind and helpful to her peers. For example, Olivia and a friend asked if there was a way to make everyone feel special on their birthday. They worked with their guided study teacher to make sure each student has a birthday acknowledgment on their locker. Olivia and a classmate also took the initiative to organize a cancer awareness day in sixth grade. This included emailing all sixth grade teachers and asking them (and their homeroom) to support this cause. Olivia really is a super sixth grader.  - Club House Teachers

November 2021

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Mason Lieven

"Mason models kindness, inclusion, and empathy. He is always watching out for others and encouraging his peers to engage in learning and play. He seeks out students who are looking for someone to play with and includes them in his play. Mason is helpful to others and truly cares about his peers." -Ms. Kelsie Geissbuhler, 2nd Grade

October 2021

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Cullen Pulvermacher

Cullen Pulvermacher is a 5th grade student in Mrs. Gervasi’s classroom. He is a leader in the classroom community, taking care to be a good friend to others and work hard on his academic skills. 

Last year, Cullen was in Ms. McAteer’s class, and she shared the following from their year together: Cullen consistently volunteers to work with and help those around him who are struggling.  He is patient and flexible, with a relaxed confidence that creates a positive space around him in the classroom. His writing was exciting to read, and he always put in many details and worked hard to bring his work to life. He follows through on his assignments and commitments, and is very self-driven.

June 2021

Gwen Mahoney

High School junior, Gwen, is able to see situations from multiple perspectives and she is wise beyond her years. If you need a role model or an advocate, Gwen Mahoney is the person you want going to bat for you. When Gwen commits, she follows through and gives all she can to be the best at what she is doing. When asked staff to describe Gwen, MHHS staff consistently shared the words: compassionate, talented, dedicated, optimistic, genuine and positive!

May 2021

Anika Schaller

Anika is a very gifted singer and performer, but is still always looking to improve, and doesn't shy away from challenges or mistakes.  She works extremely hard, and is always open to suggestions and ideas of how to become a better musician.  She was to take part in the high school musical - Mary Poppins - this spring; a huge honor (and undertaking!) for a middle school student. She was also part of the High School's production of "The Music Man" as a 5th grader. Anika is helpful to those around her and is a team-player in every way.  She is a hard worker in class, puts in 100% effort with all work and is very sweet. In addition to being a great student, she is always kind and inclusive to others.  Anika is kind and patient, extremely responsible, and pleasant. She does an excellent job of portraying the 3Rs and is a positive role model for all of her peers. Always friendly and thoughtful.  She is eager to learn and doesn't hesitate to help others.

April 2021

Grant Mlsna

"Since in-person learning has started, Grant has been a leader amongst his classmates, suggesting games to play at recess and making sure all of his classmates can be involved in the game. When talking about that during conferences, Grant shared that he’s been thinking about how isolated kids have all been during virtual learning, and he wanted to make sure that everyone was included in class games and felt happy to be at school. He understands the importance of belonging in the classroom community and works to make days brighter for other students. Grant is a great example of our many Vikings who go the extra mile to make the world a better place.  Other strengths include being great writer, good self-advocate, and his family hosts an equine therapist at their stable and supports the LBGTQ community. Grant is a beekeeper!" -Katie Hauge, Intermediate Center Principal

March 2021

Decker Riley

Decker Riley’s kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Buntrock, says, “Decker is such a caring, responsible, and respectful student. He is such a great young child who truly cares about others! It has been an honor to have him in my classroom! ” She went on to share several instances in which Decker has made new peers feel warmly welcome throughout their first days in the classroom, being a kind and thoughtful friend who “made a difference.”

February 2021

Jax Ploessel

“Jax is a quiet leader who is a friend to all of his classmates. He includes everyone and helps his friends when they are having problems. He models expected behaviors and is always respectful to everyone in the classroom. He is a joy to be around.”  - Karen Jeardeau (4K Teacher) & Nicole Tepe (4K Administrator)

January 2021

Austin Balousek

Austin, a freshman, was recommended for this recognition by his teacher Mrs. Amy Arneson. Mrs. Arneson wrote, “Austin is such a delight to work with and he is one of the hardest working students I have ever worked with. He is extremely polite and truly a joy to work with.” Austin was lauded for his work ethic and perseverance during the pandemic. Congratulations, Austin – We are proud of you!

December 2020

Tyler Jou

Hailing from the San Francisco region, Tyler and his family moved to Mount Horeb a little over a year ago. In his short time as a Viking, Tyler has made a positive imprint on his classmates, teachers, and school community. Principal Paul Christiansen said, “Among his many talents, Tyler is very gifted writer. Last year, he was recognized for his piece ‘The Slope of Kindness.’ Using his love for mathematics, Tyler encourages all residents of Mount Horeb to carry out acts of love and compassion for others.”

November 2020

Ella Bell

“Ella comes to virtual learning everyday prepared and ready to go like most of her classmates, but Ella also brings her smile and enthusiasm to EVERY meeting!

When a GoNoodle is played, Ella is the first one to participate. When asked questions, she is always ready to share. The question I asked the other day was "How can we show support to one another?", Ella's response was "When someone is having a difficult time, you can say, ‘You Got This!’" Also, she brings such a caring heart to every meeting by greeting everyone when they log on, and she is always the last one to leave the meeting with her big smile, a big wave and a personal good-bye to each classmate.”

-Rachel Johnson, PC Principal

October 2020

Esperanza Vargas-Santos

“Espy, as her friends call her, is writing a chapter book. Throughout the summer she would provide me copies of her story about a cat.” She continued, “Esperanza has a wonderful heart. One day in class, students were asked to create a card to warms the spirits of someone in need. Espy actually wrote 13 cards! That embodies our Espy!” 

- Katie Hauge, IC Principal

March 2020

Andrew Ahrens

“Andrew is an all-around fantastic student. He is a hard worker who always gives his best in whatever he is asked to do, and he is a kind and generous friend to his classmates. Andrew always has a smile on his face, has a positive attitude, and can work with anyone. He also looks to take on leadership opportunities when he has the chance. He is both a member of our 5th grade Safety Patrol as well as Student Council.”

-Ms.Thronson & Mrs.Liska, 5th Grade Teachers

February 2020

Hudson Miskoski

“No matter what friend it is, he is ALWAYS including everyone. He has a special eye that spots those kids who may be lonely, sad, or left out and he goes up to them and extends his GENUINE kindness to them, which might be in the way of a joke, a hug, asking them if they are okay, including them to play, suggesting something to do, etc. He is very encouraging to everyone and thinks of others instead of himself. He is the kind of friend you want to have and the kind of friend you want other kids to be like!”

-Nicole Morrisard, 1st Grade Teacher

December 2019

Owen Ziegler

“It is not unusual to see Owen interacting with teachers one moment and then players on his team the next moment. Later in the day just talking to underclassmen. He comes in with a positive attitude and willingness to support students and staff across the district. His empathy and how he treats people is a quality that comes up over and over when speaking about Owen.”

Owen, thank you for representing the very best about our District.

-Cody Lundquist, HS Principal

November 2019

Georgi Rogers

Not only is she growing her academic skills, but she is making really solid connections with her classmates (she loves to joke around and be silly, especially if she knows you well) and growing in her independence and problem-solving. Georgi works hard, listens to her teachers, and focuses on what she needs to accomplish. Mrs. Maurer, Georgi’s 4th-grade teacher, told us, “Georgi’s personality is so fun and bubbly.” 

-Katie Hauge, IC Principal 

October 2019

Raylan Olday-Westbury

Raylan was selected because of his ability to make friends with everyone. She said, “You might imagine some kids are a bit nervous during the first few weeks of school. Raylan seems to know who could use some help and he makes sure that he includes them in lunch, getting to busses, etc. He is an absolute joy!”

-Mrs. Rachael Johnson, ELC/PC Principal

June 2019

Kysa Ibinger

Kysa’s all-around-positive disposition was just the just the beginning in a long list of reasons for
her selection as a student of the month. Those in attendance at Monday night’s meeting heard from a number of Kysa’s teachers who wrote about Kysa’s fortitude, penchant for assisting others, and contributions to the success of the High School’s program. The evening was made even more special by sharing it with Kysa’s family.

May 2019

Ella Fager 

It looks like the Avengers might need to make room for another superhero. Meet Ms. Ella Fager, 7th grader. She was recognized last night by our Board of Education during their monthly Student Spotlight. Ella’s dedicated teachers told us she not only performs extremely well academically, but she is a positive role model to her peers, is often someone other students go to for help, has a positive attitude and strong work ethic. As if that were not enough, Ella is highly involved in athletics as well. She is a member of our middle school basketball team as well as the Mt. Horeb Club Basketball team that placed 7th in the state this past season! Since the completion of the basketball season, “SuperElla” has moved her athletic focus to soccer.

- Paul Christiansen, MS Principal

April 2019

Tessa Soppe 

Tessa is not only a capable student but is also kind and thoughtful towards her classmates. Academically, Tessa is a hard worker and gives her best. She is also a leader in her classroom community. Throughout the year, she was a buddy to two new students who joined the class. She welcomed them, made sure they had a partner to work with, and was a kind friend to them at recess.” Thank you, Tessa, for embodying the 3 Rs (respectful, responsible, and ready).

- Katie Hauge, IC Principal

March 2019

Alivia Long

Alivia was selected for the positive energy she exudes with her classmates and teachers. She said, “One time, I witnessed Alivia help a student follow the group plan in a classroom.  She saw that her peer was struggling and, without even being asked, went to the student and offered for them to join her. The student immediately responded positively to her invitation and was able to successfully participate in the activity.”

-Rachael Johnson, ELC/PC Principal

February 2019

Jessica Fox

Jessica "JJ" has a positive presence in her relationships and her numerous activities within the school. She demonstrates an unusual poise and maturity in her interactions with her peers and with staff. She genuinely cares about other people and making MHHS a better place to be. Jessica is an active part of our school’s service club, “Rotary Interact”, and she is involved in our Student Wellness committee, Student Council, music, and volleyball.

-Rick Penniston, HS Principal 

January 2019

Payton Almquist

The Almquist name is, no doubt, well known and synonymous with excellence – Sheri and Jim are terrific supporters of our District’s students and staff.  Payton is continuing that tradition of excellence. As an 8^th grader, Payton has been a part of 4H, Volleyball, Basketball, and Yearbook. In fact, Principal Christiansen reminded everyone that Payton was one of three students who created the Thanksgiving food drive and created this wonderful video.

-Paul Christiansen, MS Principal 
 

December 2018

Logan Ford

“If someone is sitting alone at lunch, Logan sits by them or asks them to join his group. If someone doesn’t have a friend to play with at recess, Logan invites them to play his game with him. Beyond that, Logan is respectful to his teachers and even keeps an organized desk. At the IC, we have the tradition of reading the book Only One You which talks about importance of using your gifts and talents to make the world a better place, and Logan puts this into action every day at the IC.”

-Katie Hauge, IC Principal

November 2018   Emma Erickson “Emma is such a nurturing, kind and helpful young lady. She has readily stepped up to help others who need support. Emma often, just naturally, jumps in to the ‘helper roll’ and has really built some strong, trusting relationships with her peers.”  - Rachael Johnson, ELC/PC Principal