Nine outstanding middle and high school students from the Arlington, Darrington and Lakewood School Districts were recognized April 23 by the Rotary Club of Arlington for making a difference in their respective schools. The Rotarians wanted to recognize students who stand out in different ways in their schools. The Rotary Club also donated $100 to a charity of the student’s choice.
Sunny Sweet from Arlington High School is gifted at languages and is one of the top students in his German language class. He also participates in Knowledge Bowl. “Sunny is unfailingly respectful and has a wonderfully quirky sense of humor,” said AHS German Teacher Ben Mendro. Sunny’s $100 contribution is being made to Oxfam International.
Darrington High School junior Sophia Ross is able to balance remarkable grades with an impressive array of extracurricular activities. “Sophia is a very committed, positive role model to her peers who deserves the recognition of being an outstanding student,” said Darrington Superintendent Tracy Franke. Sophia’s $100 contribution is being made to the Darrington Junior Athletic Association.
Piper Holz from Darrington Middle School is an exceptional eighth grader who consistently demonstrates commitment to higher standards and remarkable self-discipline. “Piper approaches every subject with a rigorous work ethic, ensuring that her assignments are completed with high level effort,” said Franke. Piper’s $100 contribution is being made to Leah's Dream Foundation.
Haller Middle School’s Kale Nobach consistently demonstrates a positive attitude and approaches each day with a clear sense of purpose. “Kale’s sense of humor brings positivity to the school community while always remaining appropriate and inclusive,” said Haller Middle School Principal Brooke Howell. Kale’s $100 contribution is being made to Kids’ Kloset.
Lily Fay from Lakewood High School is an amazing student, strong leader and all-around wonderful human being. “Lily bonded with our special needs Unified Basketball players to the point where they became emotional if she had to miss a practice,” said Lakewood High School Coach Chris Walster. Lily’s $100 contribution is being made to Unified Sports- Basketball, Special Olympics Washington.
Lakewood Middle School eighth grader Gemma Rommel is an amazing student who is academically strong and connected with the school. “Gemma stands out among her peer as exceptional – not only in her academic ability but in her willingness to push herself to her full potential,” said Lakewood Middle School Principal Dr. Amanda Cote. Gemma’s $100 contribution is being made to the Arlington Boys and Girls Club.
Post Middle School’s Hudson Little is a great leader at Post. “Hudson takes on big projects without hesitation and perseveres through difficult situations and group dynamics,” said former Post Librarian Britt Kleinman. Hudson’s $100 contribution is being made to WQMA.
Tristan Hinrichs from the Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center is a steadfast leader at SVLC. “Tristan is the first student to offer to help his peers and our staff and volunteers with his time and talents,” said SVLC Math Teacher Rachel Manza. Tristan’s $100 contribution is being made to The Voice of the Martyrs.
Weston High School’s Vincent Wilkins is a thoughtful presence at Weston. “Vincent is a student who doesn’t seek the spotlight but absolutely strengthens the room,” said Weston Teacher Sean Ferrill. Vincent’s $100 contribution is being made to the Arlington Community Food Bank.