Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Salute

TO VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATES & PLATINUM STUDENTS

CLASS OF

2019 F O U N D A T I O N

BILLINGS

PUBLIC

SCHOOLS

The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools and Billings Gazette Communications are proud to honor businesses that support education in our community and the students who have achieved the status of Valedictorian candidates in their high school.

INSIDE Partnerships in Action

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Snapshots

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List of partners

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BNSF Awards

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BNSF teachers

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Distinguished educators

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Exxon/STEM

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Meet the Valedictorian candidates 12-22 Salute to Valedictorian Candidates is a special advertising publication of The Billings Gazette

Publisher Dave Worstell

PARTNERS SALUTE 2019 What is Partners in Education?

Partners in Education is a community-wide partnership between schools, businesses, and community members dedicated to ensuring the success of all K-12 students and schools in the Billings area. Partners in Education is a program of the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools.

What is the goal of Partners in Education?

The goal of Partners in Education is to build mutually benefiting partnerships between schools and businesses that result in school improvement, teaching excellence, student achievement, and appreciation of common community goals.

What kinds of partnerships are there?

There are many ways that organizations and businesses can participate in a partnership with the schools in Billings. Each partnership is unique, depending upon the capacity of the business and the needs

of the school. Example activities include:  Tutoring or mentoring students  Providing incentives for students and faculty  Speaking at a Career Day or other classroom event  Donating in-kind services, materials, or equipment  Volunteering as contest judges, field trip chaperones, or pen pals

What are the benefits of a partnership?

Many schools get additional support through the partnerships such as tutors, mentors, and extracurric-

ular activities for students. Students also get the chance to meet adult mentors in the community and learn about career choices. Likewise, many employees enjoy the opportunity to do something positive for the community and to be given time by their employer to do so. Businesses also benefit from the positive image of giving back to the Billings community.

How do I start a partnership at my school or business?

To learn more about starting a partnership at your school or business, please contact Krista Hertz, at (406) 245-4133 or by email at hertzk@billingsschools.org

Thank you to our sponsors

Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Arcadea Scott Special Sections Coordinator Mo Lucas Access Salute to Valedictorians 2019 at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections E2

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Salute to Valedictorians 2019

PARTNERS IN ACTION

Famous Daves and Beartooth Elementary See how Billings Businesses are making a difference in Billings Public Schools!

Each partnership is unique between our schools and businesses but the impact made on students is always focused and beneficial.

Famous Dave’s celebrates student

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

successes and recognizes those students who are making positive connections in their school by providing lunch each month for the “Famous Kid of the Month” program. Famous Dave’s recognizes Beartooth Elementary students in supporting not just their classmates but heroes outside of the school, our veterans. Famous Dave’s provides free meals

to veterans on Veterans Day and Beartooth Elementary students make cards to give to the veterans.

Students in Beartooth’s Ambassador Program spend 2 hours over the lunch period at Famous Dave’s on Veteran’s Day to personally thank and shake the hands of every veteran that comes through the door. “It’s an enriching time for our students, our partner-

ship with Famous Dave’s and our veterans,” shared Mr. Travis Niemeyer, Beartooth Elementary Principal. The partnership with Famous Dave’s also supports Beartooth Elementary’ s Amazing Shake program as Famous Dave’s hosts the final round. Students stand in as junior hosts/hostess and work on customer and interpersonal skills.

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PARTNERS IN ACTION

Skyview High Job Shadow Day Each year the Skyview High counseling department organizes a job shadow day for interested students. This program has grown in size and scope over the years to bring in additional learning components for students and business mentor connections.

This year 48 juniors and seniors registered and completed an application, participated in the business interview section, and

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sent a professional thank you letter after they completed their job shadow experience. Students met with local business champions prior to the actual job shadow experience to practice interview and soft skills. Many of the business volunteers were from a variety of businesses’ human resources department.

Students completed a 15 minute “interview” but it was more

of an opportunity for students to learn how to visit with a professional. Conversations were based around what to expect from a job shadow and what students can do to get the most out of the experience.

“Job shadows allow students a first-hand look at careers they have a desire to pursue. Sometimes these experiences will solidify their desire and motivates

students to take course work or a pathway. Other times, yet equally important, students may learn that this is not a career they wish to pursue, thus allowing them time to take more exploratory course work in a different pathway. The networking and partnerships that are built can benefit both student and business member,” shared Tina Boone, Skvyiew High School.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

PARTNERS IN ACTION

KOA and Ponderosa Elementary KOA and Ponderosa Elementary have been Partners in Education for over 15 years. Throughout the years, the partnership has changed but the one constant has always been the dedicated KOA volunteers!

Each year KOA employees volunteer to help Ponderosa students on a weekly basis in reading and math. Additional KOA volunteers help with special projects and events to support students.

This year KOA volunteers helped 5th grade students with math skills by teaching them how to play cribbage and even purchased students their own cribbage boards to continue practicing math skills and to play with family and friends.

Over the years, KOA has provided ice cream and volunteers for the Ponderosa Elementary open house and sponsored the Saturday Live sucker pull to raise funds for school projects.

This year, KOA leadership took part in the Amazing Shake program to help students build soft skills and provided backpack cinch bags and towels for students who take part in YMCA swim lessons.

We care where you are.

Saluting healthy futures With congratulations for the 2019 Valedictorians, we recognize the academic achievement of all graduating students and salute those pursuing a future in medical careers.

billingsclinic.com/careers Salute to Valedictorians 2019

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PARTNERS IN ACTION

INSPIRE Billings ‘When community and education works together, it wins together’ is the goal of INSPIRE Billings. INSPIRE Billings is a cloud-based platform which allows employers, students, and counselors to communicate and connect with each other safely and securely.

INSPIRE Billings is linked to Career Cruising, which is a career inventory and exploration program used in the middle and high schools in Billings Public Schools. Students are able to take career and interest surveys and learn how their passions, hobbies, and interests align with career fields. Then with the support of counselors, students can access INSPIRE Billings to visit with business professionals in our community.

INSPIRE Billings removes the barriers between students and employers. Often times, it is difficult for employers to know which students are interested in entering their profession, while it is difficult for students to connect with local experts.

INSPIRE Billings breaks these barriers down and facilitates interaction between employers and students that lead to job shadow opportunities, career coaches, work-based learning, company tours, and much more.

There are currently 4,665 students who have created portfolios with identified career pathways in Career Cruising and INSPIRE Billings. Over 88 Billings’ businesses and 100 business leaders serve as career coaches as part of INSPIRE Billings. To learn how to get involved, contact Deborah Turk at 406.281.5067.

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Salute to Valedictorians 2019

OTHER PARTNERSHIPS

SNAPSHOTS OF OTHER PARTNERSHIPS Altana Federal Credit Union employees participated in the implementation of House Teams at Boulder Elementary. They donated jackets for House Team Leaders.

Big Sky EMS supports the EMT program at the Career Center through donations and discounts for their fall conference registration for all students. They also donate time, equipment, and expertise to the national registry testing of students.

Billings Clinic hosts 5th graders at McKinley for “Career Day” at Billings Clinic. Students are given hands on, active instruction on future career pathways in healthcare. Billings Clinic Human Resources department also provided job interview skill training through mock interviews with the students.

City of Billings Fire Department hosts Career Center EMT students each spring for their 10 required observation hours as part of their EMT training.

CTA Architects Engineers provide 23 volunteers at Newman Elementary on a regular basis. The volunteers target reading, math and science to support students.

Also, CTA supports Newman Elementary families in need through holiday food baskets.

EBMS employees volunteer for the Back 2 School neighborhood canvassing and the spring carnival at Big Sky Elementary. In addition, EBMS provided device storage units for every classroom in the school.

ExxonMobil employees volunteered to clean out the school’s learning garden, painted the recess “ball wall” and assisted in preparing materials for the school’s student complement wall.

First Interstate Bank – Shiloh branch employees volunteer every week in the 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms assisting with reading and math activities. They ensure that the school carnival is a success by volunteering their time and energy for the evening festivities.

Mission Ridge assists Arrowhead Elementary kindergarten students with letter recognition and beginning reading skills each week. The students in turn invite residents to classroom performances, share holiday cards and volunteer at Mission Ridge with a variety of activities.

Opportunity Bank employees volunteer on a weekly basis in 5th grade classrooms at Burlington Elementary to give short lessons on financial topics as well as lend a hand in assisting students with math.

Riverstone and Area Health Education Center (AHEC) supports workforce development projects at the Career Center through guest lectures, interactions with medical students, and career coaching.

Rocky Mountain College partnered with Rose Park Elementary to support Literacy University at the school. Rocky students put on a school wide assembly, read in classrooms, and hosted 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students on cam-

pus for tours. The goal of Literacy University is to expose students to higher education and encourage them to set goals.

St. Vincent Healthcare is providing funding this spring to assist schools and families with purchasing low-cost bike helmets for students.

Valley Credit Union employees volunteer on a weekly basis at Miles Avenue Elementary and provide volunteers for the school carnival, Saturday Live, spelling bee, Take a Book Home Night, Kids in Motion, as well as anything else that arises! Valley Credit Union donated 50 helmets for students who bike to school that are in need.

WyndStone residents joined 2nd graders at Eagle Cliffs Elementary to be interviewed about their past experiences. In addition, 5th graders shared holiday songs with WyndStone residents and 3rd grade and Life Skills students are making May Day baskets to surprise residents with.

LAUNCH YOUR FUTURE HERE Allied Health Professions

Arts & Sciences

Business

Education

City College

msubillings.edu/launch Salute to Valedictorians 2019

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LIST OF PARTNERS Partners in Education:

Thank you to Career Center Industry Partners in Education

 Altana Federal Credit Union and Boulder Elementary

 360 Office

 MSUB - City College

 A & E Architects and Beartooth Elementary

 A & H Turf

 Motion & Flow Control Products

 Billings Clinic and McKinley Elementary

 Advanced Care Hospital

 Montana Geriatric Education Institute

 CTA Architects / Engineers and Newman Elementary

 AHEC

 Murphy Business and Financial

 Denny Menholt Chevrolet & Billings Public Schools

 Air Controls

 Myles Egan, Realtor

 EBMS and Big Sky Elementary

 All Lock

 NAPA Auto Parts

 ExxonMobil and Bench Elementary and Billings Public Schools

 American Welding Supply

 NASA – HUNCH

 Famous Dave’s and Beartooth Elementary

 Beyond the Box

 Northern Hotel

 Farmers Insurance Agents and Sandstone Elementary

 Big Sky EMS

 Northwest Farm Credit Services

 First Alliance Church and Central Heights Elementary

 Billings Clinic

 Patrick Murphy

 Billings Fire Department

 Phoenix Wellness & Education Center

 Billings Hardware

 Precision Highway Contractors

 Billings Insulation

 Precision Plumbing

 Billings Job Service

 RB & C Grain

 Billings Works

 Rimrock Mall & businesses

 Brewer Dental

 Rimrock Lighting

 Brown’s Automotive Service

 River Ridge Landscaping

 Carpet One

 RiverStone Health

 CarMart 360

 Rocky Mountain College, College of Science

 Cellular Plus

 St. John’s Lutheran Ministries

 Corcoran Trucking

 St. Vincent Healthcare

 Denny Menholt

 Sherwin Williams

 First Interstate Bank Downtown and Highland Elementary  First Interstate Bank Heights and Bitterroot Elementary  First Interstate Bank Shiloh and Big Sky Elementary  First Interstate Bank West and Meadowlark & Washington Elementary  HDR and Central Heights Elementary  Kampgrounds of America and Ponderosa Elementary  KTVQ-2 and Billings Public Schools  Phillips 66 and Orchard Elementary and South Side Neighborhood Schools  Opportunity Bank and Burlington Elementary  Rachel Court, Realtor, Coldwell Banker and Burlington Elementary  RiverStone Health and Orchard Elementary and Riverside Middle School

 Shiloh Vet

 Rocky Mountain College and Rose Park Elementary

 First Interstate Bank

 Sanderson Stewart and Meadowlark Elementary

 Henderson Construction

 St. John’s Lutheran Ministries/Mission Ridge and Arrowhead Elementary

 Home Builders Association  Housing Authority of Billings

 South Central Montana Area Health Education Center

 St. Vincent Healthcare and Broadwater Elementary

 Inland Truck Parts

 Stockman Bank

 St. Vincent Healthcare Foster Grandparent Program and Billings Public Schools

 Joe Bonini Construction

 Taylor Electric

 Legacy Healthcare

 The Paint Center

 Local 732 Iron Workers

 United Way

 Lyndy Gurchiek

 Vannoy Metal Works

 United Way of Yellowstone County and Billings Public Schools  Valley Federal Credit Union and Miles Avenue Elementary  Wells Fargo Bank and Billings Senior High

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 Dr. Holley Basta

 Silent Knight  Sign Pro

 Mark Rite Lines

 Walmart

 Wendy’s of Montana and Washington Elementary

 Matheson Flight Extenders

 Wells Fargo Bank

 WyndStone and Eagle Cliffs Elementary

 Meadow Green Sales

 Yellowstone County Implement

 YMCA and McKinley Elementary

 miCare – EBMS

 Yellowstone Polaris Recreation

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Salute to Valedictorians 2019

BNSF EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD

BNSF Railway Excellence in Education Award The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, in partnership with BNSF Railway, is proud to announce the winners of the BNSF Railway Excellence in Education Award for 2019.

The Excellence in Education program seeks to recognize teachers who are striving to make a positive impact on the education of Billings Public Schools students. Middle and high school students across the district nominated 162 teachers as Distinguished Educators. All of these outstanding educators were invited to apply for the Excellence in Education Award. From the thirty-nine applications received, two teachers were selected by a panel of local business and education leaders.

As Excellence in Education Award winners, these two teachers will each receive a $2,500 award to use toward continuing education or classroom projects. This is the second year BNSF Railway has recognized teachers in Billings Public Schools with this award.

T.J. Umemoto – Billings Senior High Mr. T.J. Umemoto is guided in his teaching by the age old adage,” Students may not remember exactly what you teach them, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” He has carried this philosophy into his science classroom and onto the football and track fields for the past 15 years at Billings Senior High. His focus is on building positive relationships with his students in order for them to feel safe and take risks in their learning. As a physics teacher, Mr. Umemoto

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

will use the BNSF award to purchase a Vernier Dynamics Cart and Track System to create new opportunities for his students to explore force, position, velocity, and acceleration using their own blue-toothed device. These versatile systems combine hands–on physics experiments with technology to encourage students to develop the critical thinking skills that are required for success in the 21st century.

Laura Walker – Burlington Elementary Ms. Laura Walker has been sharing her passion for art in the classroom for over 5 years. With a loud voice, brightly colored shoes and a fancy bowtie, Laura makes a lasting impression on the lives of 444 students across six elementary schools each week. In addition to art, Laura coaches middle and high school softball. At the heart of her teaching philosophy is building relationships with each of these students. Laura thinks outside of the box in her approach to teaching art to elementary students. The typical vision of turkey hands, Christmas, trees, and snowflakes are ditched in favor of animation, Stop Motion, photography, architecture, cartoon development, digital portfolios, and editing and music integration. Digital art is her passion. Ms. Walker will use the BNSF award to further this journey by purchasing iPads, Apple Pencils, and a green screen kit to enable students to explore more opportunities within digital art.

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DISTINGUISHED EDUCATORS 2019 The following educators were nominated by Billings Public Schools middle and high school students for the outstanding impact they have made on their education:

 Justin Engle

 Pat Lowthian

 Annie Rice

 Tammy Erlenbusch

 Jenny Lueck

 Tiffany Rodriguez

 Aliece Estrada

 Stephen Macartney

 Leah Samuelson

 Jessica Felchle

 Clint Mainwaring

 Jill Sanders

 Kari Field

 Heather Manske

 Martha Sandoval

 Jennifer Fleek Airne

 Karen Marcotte

 Matthew Santala

 Julie Garton

 Ross Marquis

 Lisa Saur

 Teal Gibson

 Deborah Marshall

 Angela Schanz-Roe

 John Goodheart

 Dustin Martin

 Rachel Shawhan

 Steve Greene

 Jill McKnight

 Ryan Groshans

 Juli McNeil

 Sandra Shawhan

 Erin Grummett

 Kate McPherson

 Stephen Guelff

 Fred Michels

 Mona Gullett

 Shannon Moore

 Constance Haan

 Tana Munguia

 Josh Haber

 Ryan Nafts

 Mitchell Harmon

 Shanna Nason

 Kimberly Harrington

 Margaret Nation

 Jessica Heier

 Shannon Newell

 Allie Hein

 Brett Nichols

 Jeffrey Bottrell

 Jennifer Henderson

 Natasha Norby

 Corrie Bowman

 Jeremy Hernandez

 Sue Nord

 Jonathon Bushey

 Elizabeth Hoefle

 Kacey Olson

 Stacey Byrd

 Jacoby Holte

 Kerra Olson

 Kourtney Carter

 Jessica Howland

 Douglas Oltrogge

 Desiree Caskey

 Jennifer Hudson

 Bridgett Paddock

 Lynda Chase

 Lori Hypes

 Tiffany Parish

 Randy Chase

 Rose Iverson

 Steve Patton

 Jesse Chipman

 Brittanie Javier

 Celeste Peel

 Katherine Cordes

 Nels Jensen

 Jacoby Pertuit

 Robin Cormier

 Austrin Johnson

 Debra Peterson

 Kristopher Cummings

 Michaela Johnson

 Amy Pfeifle

 Tera Cunningham

 David Jones

 Keenan Pfeifle

 Bruce Wendt

 Maggie Daly

 Patrick Kenney

 Colter Pierce

 Danielle Whittmeyer

 Julie Dannenberg

 Tamra Kenny

 Traci Piltz

 Darla Williams

 Katrina Davies

 Christina Knote

 Bobbi Poser

 Janelle Wilson

 Nicole DelCamp

 Kristin Knote

 Kim Potter

 Julie Winkler

 Annie Douglas

 Maureen Ladd

 Michael Qualls

 Kurt Wohler

 Kelly Duneman

 Kelly Latham

 Brandon Quesenberry

 Nikki Wohler

 Vickie Eagle

 Chelsea Leder

 Molly Reas

 Karry Woodard

 Lance Edward

 Tegan Leffler

 Aimee Reinhardt

 Leah Yasenak

 DeeAnn Egeland

 Brittney Levang

 Joel Reitz

 Kristen Zalenski

 Jenna Allie  Eric Anderson  Josh Anderson  Spencer Anderson  Brandon Anton  Ryan Aselson  Linda Auch  Bryce Baker  Beth Bakken  Ahnna Barnett  Robert Barthule  Daniel Bartsch  Tiffany Binford  Catherine Blee  Kami Bodine

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 Angela Shull  Lisa Shulund  Brent Skelton  Erin Small  Keely Staub  April Stetler  Talia Super-Byram  Vincent Swanson  Julie Tallman  Michael Thomas  Vicki Thompson  T.J. Umemoto  Patricia Venner  Casey Visser  Laura Walker  Russell Walks  Tori Wardrip  Jay Wartnow  Tanya Watt  Kimberly Webber  Janae Welch

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

PARTNERS IN ACTION

WHY STEM? WHY NOT?!

Whenever conversations in Billings venture toward real-world STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) experiences, often times an Exxon-Mobil reference is in the mix.

That’s because employees at the Exxon-Mobil Billings refinery are fully engaged in STEM outreach and activities in various venues. Through active collaboration, Exxon-Mobil brings like-minded STEM enthusiasts together to build capacity for students who are thirsty for more hands-on activities that are relevant to future workforce opportunities.

Partnering with other businesses, educators and non-profits, Exxon-Mobil employees have developed and stewarded STEM Billings, a unique program to engage kids in a hands-on and relevant fashion. Since inception in 2015, STEM Billings has provided influential events for nearly 1,800 kids with nearly 100 volunteers from around the community.

Subject areas have included health and medicine; coding and computer science; energy and engineering; and environmental science.

STEM Billings partners have embraced the notion that work-based learning is in the eyes – and hands – of the beholder. Together, they know that passion can be found any time, any place… and yes, even outside of school hours.

Students are encouraged to be fearless while business/industry partners are urged to be bold in a new integrated approach to learning and training. The real-world application of math, chemistry, physics, engineering, and computer science has a major impact on feeding local workforce needs.

Whether it involves connecting kids to shadowing an engineer or enabling understanding pump operations, a commitment to STEM outreach is aimed to:  Foster STEM ecosystems that unite all stakeholders across the community to drive talent toward good paying STEM jobs.  Erase artificial boundaries between “traditional” career/tech education and between formal and informal STEM education in terms of impact assessment, credentialing and professional development to better align education with employer needs.  Increase diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields (women, minorities, persons with disabilities and in rural areas.)

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SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATES & PLATINUM STUDENTS

Savannah Faith Photography

Sarah Restad

Jay Erekson

Elijah Erekson Parents: Susana and Jay Erekson Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland Elementary Future Plans: I plan on getting a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at BYU-Provo.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: German class. In four years, I’ve learned a new language.

Motivation for Platinum Program: My older sister did it and now I have to show her up.

Magnum Opus: Music composition Teacher: Amy Pfeifle. She was my pre-calculus teacher and she made math really fun.

Extracurricular Activities: Cross country, track and field, speech and debate.

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Mike Turley

Rikki Held Parents: Steve Held Middle School: Powder River County District High School Elementary School: Broadus Elementary School Future Plans: After high school, I plan to attend Colorado College in Colorado Springs to study Environmental Science.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: AP Calculus has been the most difficult because we move quickly through challenging content, however, it can be rewarding when I work hard and am able to understand the material.

Motivation for Platinum Program: Although I was not sure what the Platinum Program was when I first signed up, working on an independent project sounded like an exciting experience that would challenge me along with my Honors and AP classes.

Magnum Opus: My Magnum Opus is a documentary on the progress of soccer in Montana, following the Billings Senior High girls team. This project included organizing, filming, and editing, while also playing with the team.

Teacher: Mr. Craig Beals, who gave me the opportunity to pursue science through STEM club and the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders, has furthered my interest in the sciences.

Extracurricular Activities: National Honors Society, Senior Advocates, Student Council, STEM Club, Soccer, USGS

Parents: Veronica and Mark Restad Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland, McKinley, Poly Drive Elementaries Future Plans: I plan to attend Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts and I will likely major in Chemical Engineering. Aside from that I will hopefully do some traveling and would love to study abroad in Germany.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: I took chemistry my junior year and I found it fascinating and knew that I wanted to continue learning, however my school did not offer an AP Chem class. I went to the principal and asked it if could teach myself AP Chem. After a lot of begging, I was finally allowed to take it. Though it is challenging it has been one of my favorite classes.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was doing a puzzle one day with my grandmother who has Alzheimer’s, and I noticed that as she did the puzzle her memory span improved. It was nothing monumental, perhaps only a few more minutes, but it made me feel like I got a little piece of my grandma back. And if I could recreate that feeling in just one person with my project, I’ll be happy.

Magnum Opus: I created a book of puzzles that is designed to improve cognition in Alzheimer’s patients. My puzzles are designed to make Alzheimer’s patients use different parts of their brains and hopefully use areas of their brains that are less affected by Alzheimer’s.

Teacher: My 4th, 5th, and 6th grade teacher, Mrs. Porisch has made the biggest impact on me. When I started her class I was painfully shy. But Mrs. Porisch made me believe in myself, because she believed in me.

I know that I would not have been able to accomplish what I have, had it not been for Mrs. Porisch, who gave me the confidence to believe in myself.

Extracurricular Activities: I have volunteered with the Alzheimer’s Association for the past few years and it has been one of my favorite activities I have ever done.

I have gotten to help with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and help fundraise as well as help a workgroup that is focused on improving Alzheimer’s care in Montana.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Melanie Steiner Photography

Jana Graham Photography

Maisee Brown Parents: Aimee and Michael Brown Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland Elementary Future Plans: I plan on studying Biochemistry with a Pre-med focus and pursuing a collegiate athletic career pole vaulting!

Teacher: Mr. Dan Bartsch, he helped me solidify my interest in pursuing medicine as a career, and he’s just an awesome person and teacher overall!

Motivation for Platinum Program: I have always been one to take on academic challenges, and I took it as an opportunity to make an impact in my community of peers.

Magnum Opus: Mental Health Awareness

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Jana Graham Photography

Nicole Deichl

Marko Foster

Parents: Emily and Mark Deichl Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Miles Avenue and Poly Drive Elementary Future Plans: I have been accepted into Texas A & M. I plan on majoring in business there and getting a minor in Spanish.

Teacher: My fourth through sixth grade teacher Mrs. Porisch. Her class was fun, and focused on looking at problems in new ways. The most important thing she taught us was the Greek and Latin root words. They help me in so many ways, from understanding Spanish and scientific terms to unfamiliar words in English.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was already going to take all honors classes anyway, so my parents and I decided that I would do Platinum Program as well.

Magnum Opus: I reconstructed an 1880’s evening dress for my Magnum Opus. Along the way, I had to research the undergarments of the era, general fashions of the time, myths about corsets, and sewing techniques such as piping and gathering.

Parents: Elena Petroska and Paul Foster Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Vlado Tasevski (Macedonia) and Poly Drive Elementary Future Plans: I am planning to attend either Western Washington University or the University of Denver.

Teacher: One teacher who has made the greatest positive impact on me is Mr. Umemoto who was my freshman Honors Geometry and AP Physics teacher this year. He is an inspiring teacher because he fully comprehends what he is teaching the class at all times.

He does not waste time and explains the subject in a way that every student understands.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was motivated to participate in the Platinum Program in order to challenge myself academically and intellectually. The Platinum Program also allowed me to take the best classes and help me prepare for college.

Magnum Opus: My Magnum Opus was an attempt to solve the decades-old mystery of my great grandfather who mysteriously disappeared in the mid-1930s in Kansas.

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SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Hailey Maurer

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Savannah Faith

Jenna Martin

Theresa Goudy

Savannah Harley

Grace Hodges

Parents: Krista and Jeff Goudy Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Rose Park Elementary Future Plans: I will pursue a degree in Interior Design and my CIDA Accreditation in order to earn my Interior Design license.

Teacher: Mrs. Amy Pfeifle at Billings Senior High School has made a tremendous impact on my education. She always took time out of her busy day to give me extra tutoring for difficult concepts and supported me in all my endeavors, whether academic or extracurricular.

Motivation for Platinum Program: My parents encouraged me to join the program and I wanted to try it to push myself. I had already been planning to take the harder classwork and the project piqued my interests. I thought some of the past projects were amazing and I wanted to organize one that benefited the community, as well as my own learning.

Magnum Opus: My Magnum Opus explored ways to improve the valuable trait of creativity in children, so that they would be benefited later in life. I designed, implemented, and taught a creative writing program for elementary school children to promote problem solving and critical thinking skills in an open and nurturing environment.

Parents: Jamie and Dwight Harley Middle School: Elysian School Elementary School: Elysian School Future Plans: I will be taking a year off of school to model in New York City and then when I return I will attend college.

Teacher: I have had too many wonderful teachers that have made an impact on my education to just name one. In particular, my pre-calculus teacher Ms. Pfeifle helped me understand the subject I struggle with the most – math, while also being a great mentor in general. I also want to thank Mrs. Fleek Airne and Ms. Cordes for helping me become a better writer.

Motivation for Platinum Program: Honestly, I just wanted to do something meaningful with my four years in high school – more than just showing up for class. The Platinum Program was a way to keep myself motivated and maximize my educational experience.

Magnum Opus: I documented my journey into the fashion industry, including my trip to New York last summer, in which I received my modeling contract.

Parents: Kimberly and Michael Hodges Middle School: Lockwood Middle School Elementary School: Lockwood Elementary Future Plans: I have been accepted to my dream school the Savannah College of Art and Design to major in Acting with a minor in Painting.

Teacher: Cindy Gopp is the Gifted Education teacher at Lockwood school. I was grateful every year (K – 8) to be in her class. She taught me more about school and life than any other teacher could. To this day, I continue to go back to Lockwood and see her any chance I can.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was already planning on taking all honors and AP classes so another project on top of that seemed like a fun challenge and a way to expand my knowledge in an area of interest.

Magnum Opus: For my final product, I created a musical around the 2017 album “The Click” by AJR. I took the songs and strung them together with a story line and dialogue of my own.

Sunday, April 21, 2019

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Clara Bentler

Vance Elumbaugh

Robin’s Nesst Photography

Kirsten Kraske

Chelan Laverdure

Julien Rollins

Parents: Greg and Ilja Kraske Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland Elementary Future Plans: I plan to attend Montana State University with a major in Finance and a minor in Political Science.

Teacher: My physics teacher Mr. Umemoto because he taught me how to study and how to understand what I am doing in his class.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I wanted to participate in it because it was a great way to experience a small part of college and to get ready for it in the future.

Magnum Opus: I created a business plan for an Italian restaurant.

Parents: Kristen Burg and Donald Laverdure Middle School: Lockwood Middle School Elementary School: Lockwood Elementary Future Plans: I am attending the University of Arizona to study Biomedical Science.

Teacher: Sue Nord – She was my faculty mentor for my project. I had her sophomore year for AP world history. She thoroughly prepared me for the AP exam and the end of the year.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I’ve always taken honors and AP classes, and I wanted to do a project that would allow me to better help our community and further, our country.

Magnum Opus: International diplomacy and the United States’ stance on diplomatic relations and different governing systems in countries.

Parents: Julie Johnson and Jim Rollins Middle School: Lockwood Middle School Elementary School: Lockwood Elementary Future Plans: I plan to study at The New England Conservatory of Music and Tufts University in Boston, in their dual degree program, majoring in bassoon performance and history.

Teacher: This question is an unfair one, for I have had many spectacular teachers. The entire honors English department at Senior High for example. But the teacher who positively influenced me the most was my middle school PE teacher, Mr. Hankins. In a period where I struggled with anxiety, he was a supportive friend that stood by my side.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I wanted to take the honors and AP classes. I thought it was good that the program asks you to commit to that course as a freshman.

Magnum Opus: My Magnum Opus involved using classical music to engage the community. Classical music is for everyone. Many people just don’t know that. My project specifically targeted younger students because research shows that engagement in music education improves academic performance and well-being. I wanted to encourage that.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Sunday, April 21, 2019

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SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Jana Graham

Jana Graham

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SKYVIEW HIGH SCHOOL VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATE

Mackenzie Winters

Madison Winters

Kendall Ard

Parents: Tammy and Ron Winters Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland Elementary Future Plans: I plan to attend Montana State University in the coming fall. I am excited to further my education by pursuing a major focused in the PreMedicine track.

Teacher: Mrs. Amy Pfeifle, my Honors Pre-Calculus teacher taught me self-discipline within a difficult subject. This was one of the first more challenging classes I took throughout high school, and Mrs. Pfeifle gave me every opportunity to succeed as long as I was willing to put in the necessary work. I have carried this trait all through senior year.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I have always been determined to challenge myself through education, so going into high school I wanted to continue this trend. I knew that I was going to take all the necessary classes to fulfill the Program, so I thought that the Magnum Opus Capstone would serve as a good addition to my in-class rigor.

Magnum Opus: I wanted to increase parental, patient, and community awareness of Childhood Cancer. In doing so, I aimed to brighten the days of young children who are confined to hospital beds and waiting rooms because of this terrible disease. In order to attain these goals, I handmade blankets for the pediatric cancer patients at my local hospital.

Parents: Tammy and Ron Winters Middle School: Lewis and Clark Middle School Elementary School: Highland Elementary Future Plans: I plan on attending Montana State University in the fall and am looking to pursue an education in the medical field.

Teacher: Mr. Umemoto my AP Physics teacher because he has really challenged me to learn in ways that I am not used to. I have to think critically and apply everything I have learned in my high school education to the real world. He has also taught me that the effort you put into something translates directly to your success.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I have always enjoyed taking more rigorous courses when given the opportunity. When I entered high school I knew I would want to take as many high level classes as I could and the Platinum Program’s Magnum Opus seemed like a great way to prepare myself for college theses in the future.

Magnum Opus: For my Magnum Opus I chose to start a non-profit summer soccer camp for the youth in my city.

Parents: Mike Ard Middle School: Lockwood Middle School Elementary School: Lockwood Elementary Future Plans: To live simply.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: My most rewarding classes have been all of my art classes.

Nothing is better than being able to look at something you’ve created with your own two hands, admire it, and strive to make something greater. Art is one of the only classes in public schooling where you’re allowed to be yourself and disregard the rules.

Teacher: My most influential teacher throughout my life has been my previous gifted and talented teacher from Lockwood, Cindy Gopp. She taught me what it means to indulge in the art of reading.

She taught me how there are endless possibilities in attacking a problem, one simply needs to be creative enough to look for them.

Extracurricular Activities: I’ve answered this question so many times and I do not think I have the ambition to do it again.

Sunday, April 21, 2019

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

SKYVIEW HIGH SCHOOL VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATE

WEST HIGH VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATES & PLATINUM STUDENTS

Kendall Barrie

Sharon Poore

Mark Poore Parents: Sharon and Bill Poore Middle School: Castle Rock Middle School Elementary School: Dennison Elementary School Future Plans: I plan on attending Montana Tech for engineering. I am still undecided as of right now which branch I am going to study. This summer I will be working in Minnesota as a bible camp counselor.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: My Honors Chemistry class with Mr. Michels was both challenging and rewarding. He expected us to be mature and diligent in the classroom, but also trusted us to handle hazardous chemicals. We had a lot of fun labs with difficult write ups, but left his class prepared for college classes and the future in general. Thanks Mr. Michels!

Teacher: Mrs. Kenny’s class made a big impact on my high school career, from teaching me AP World and Psych to always having her door open to anyone who needed a place to study, eat lunch, or hang out.

She’s helped me through tough AP classes and stay on top of my studies, as well as listen to our rants and frustrations and give us encouragement. Thanks Mrs. Kenny!

Extracurricular Activities: Student Council Board of Directors, Technical Student Association, Adventure Club, Chess Club, Billings Disc Golf League, Montana Music Institute, group leader at Harvest Middle School.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Kristin Barrie

Parents: Kristin and Jason Barrie Middle School: Trinity Lutheran School Elementary School: Trinity Lutheran School Future Plans: I plan to attend Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia where I will be a member of their Maclellan Scholars Program (Honors College). I hope to study Business, with a focus in Marketing, while minoring in Music. After college, I want to do volunteer work around the world!

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: My junior year English class, Mr. Edward’s Honors American Literature, was definitely the most challenging yet rewarding class I have taken. Mr. Edward’s rigorous literary curriculum and discussion-based class not only pushed me academically, but forced me to think, get out of my comfort zone and confront difficult social issues.

Motivation for Platinum Program: The Platinum Program’s academic intensity and community service focus made it extremely attractive to me. I like knowing that I am pushing myself academically as hard as I possibly can, and this combined with the service project component made me want to participate in the program.

Platinum Program Project: My platinum project was a small-scale mission of music therapy in the Billings community. This included assistant directing a children’s choir, teaching private music lessons, and playing piano at one of the hospitals, evaluating the impact of music on various audience sizes.

Teacher: Mr. Green, my high school choir teacher, has made a significant impact on my education thus far. Aside from teaching his students critical skills in musical theory and the science of singing, Mr. Green teaches us that there is nothing more valuable than working with others to create beautiful, impactful sound, and I’ll never forget this.

Extracurricular Activities: Cross Country, Track and Field, Choir, Drama, Key Club, Yearbook, National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America, Private Piano, Student Mentoring.

Jana Graham

Lucas Gibb Parents: Lee and Randy Gibb Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Arrowhead and Poly Drive Elementary Schools Future Plans: My post high school plans are to attend Duke University in the fall and pursue a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in aerospace.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: The most challenging class for me was definitely Honors English my junior year of high school. It was easily at least 80% of all my stress throughout the year as it was quite rigorous, not to mention that English is one of my weaker subjects. It helped, however, to have a great teacher like Mr. Edward to encourage us every day.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I already had all of the honor class and AP prerequisites and my counselor asked me if I wanted to be part of it so I thought, “Why not?”, it is going to be a great way to cap off my high school career by giving back to the community I grew up in.

Platinum Program Project: I did research online for sports related service projects because sports play a major role in my life, and I stumbled across Project Blackboard. I am renovating a local basketball court and painting a mural on the surface in order to “beautify” the park and the surrounding area to provide a safe place for students to play basketball and hang out.

Teacher: Wow, this is a tough question. I have had plenty of amazing teachers in the past 12 years, but if I had to pick one it would probably be Mrs. Terri Porisch. She was my extended studies teacher who I had for three years, and she was one of the first teachers to recognize my potential as a student and really push me in the right direction.

Extracurricular Activities: Football, Basketball, Track, Student Council, Key Club, Business Professionals of America, National Honor Society, National Business Honor Society

Sunday, April 21, 2019

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WEST HIGH VALEDICTORIAN CANDIDATES & PLATINUM STUDENTS

WEST HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Jana Graham Photography

Isabelle Wagler Precious Portraits

Sara Jensen Parents: Brittney and Kirk Jensen Middle School: The Barnesville School of Arts and Sciences Elementary School: The Barnesville School of Arts and Sciences Future Plans: I am going to be attending Brigham Young University in the fall where I will be studying political science specifically in the field of international studies. My dream is to work for the state department or for a charitable organization abroad.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: The most rewarding high school class, for me, was my Junior English class taught by Mr. Edward. We were challenged to think about new ideas and formulate our own opinions on issues. Creativity was promoted, and using arguments to support our opinions, we were encouraged to think for ourselves.

Motivation for Platinum Program: The idea of being able to orchestrate a project of my own choosing was intriguing to me. I also like the idea of being able to work with other students on something I was passionate about as we all learned and grew. It has felt more like an extracurricular activity than a research project because it has involved something I enjoy learning about.

Platinum Program Project: I have been researching the implications of nutrition on mental health and how to better incorporate nutrition into daily life.

Teacher: My sixth grade English teacher, Mrs. Sheppard was the kind of person who made you feel as if you could accomplish anything. Even thought I was only eleven, she made me feel talented and important. Her positive attitude was contagious and she helped her students see even the simple, everyday goodness.

Extracurricular Activities: I participated in key club, national honors society, cross country, track, yearbook, voice lessons, guitar lessons and was active in my church congregation.

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Sunday, April 21, 2019

Parents: Amy and Guido Wagler Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Broadwater and Arrowhead Elementary Future Plans: I am still waiting to hear back from several universities and then I’ll be able to make my decision on where to attend. I am interested in many possible majors including Physics, Environmental Engineering, and Pre-Law, so I’m excited to take classes in these fields.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: My most challenging class has been Physics 2. Although I have had to work hard to succeed in my other science classes, I have struggled much more in Physics 2 to understand the concepts. It has also been very rewarding because I love the critical thinking aspect and am now considering majoring in Physics. Not to mention that Physics is super fun!

Motivation for Platinum Program: I decided to participate in the Platinum Program because it was a way to push myself both academically and socially. It required me to take the most challenging classes that my school offers while also organizing an outside project, which helped me prioritize my time and engage in the community.

Platinum Program Project: During the 2018 election cycle, I interned with Forward Montana and organized a phone bank which entailed recruiting and training volunteers to call young voters, encourage them to vote, and answer any questions they had.

My project allowed me to learn about community organizing and use it to promote youth engagement in politics.

Teacher: Mr. Edward and Dr. Wendt, my junior year English and AP U.S. History teachers, have had the greatest impact on my education by teaching me the importance of being open-minded. Through many books and discussions in their classes, I learned that progress is only made when we make efforts to understand everyone’s individual struggle for inclusion.

Extracurricular Activities: Symphonic Band, Pep Band, Business Professionals of America, National Honor Society, Amnesty International, West High Mentors, Science Olympiad, Forward Montana Internship, HOSA, Ski Club, Youth Leadership Billings

Jana Graham

Hayden Bentzel Parents: Nancy and George Bentzel Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Boulder Elementary Future Plans: Go to college and pursue a degree in business with an accounting focus.

Teacher: Mrs. Dani Kieckbusch was my third grade teacher. She was someone that really helped me out. I had always done well in school but she helped me realize that I did not have to stress out about everything. She understood how I was as a student and helped me out greatly.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I always liked challenging myself so I have always taken the hardest classes. Then I thought that doing a project that helps others and the community would be very rewarding and beneficial.

Platinum Program Project: I am doing a project where I will put on a 3v3 soccer tournament for high schoolers. Then I will donate all the money I get to YSA to use for their scholarship fund. This can be used so that any kid can have the opportunity to play soccer.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

WEST HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Clicks Photography

Karter Bernhardt

Parents: LaShawn and Tod Bernhardt Middle School: Riverside Middle School Elementary School: Ponderosa Elementary Future Plans: I plan to attend the Davidson Honors College within the University of Montana – Missoula. My goal is to get a double major in Psychology and Media Arts, with a possible minor in Dance and Theater. While in college, I plan to travel abroad both nationally and internationally. From there, I have absolutely no clue.

Teacher: Mrs. Kari Field is one of the best teachers I have ever had. She not only connected with us, she found ways to teach us complicated and obscure topics so as to make Chemistry a fun, competitive experience rather than a dreary, stressed one. She showed me what it truly meant to commit, challenge, and love yourself. She is hands down the best, and I only hope that I’ll match her sheer authenticity someday.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I have always been the kid who pushed himself further than the rest. The kid that took the long way on a math problem to make sure he did it right. This is my nature, and so when I was presented with the opportunity to be in a program that embodies those values, I was absolutely determined to be a part of it.

Magnum Opus: My Magnum Opus is a study of behavioral traits among West High students. The inspiration for my study came from repeated observations I kept experiencing as I watched and analyzed my peers. By seeing these patterns, I eventually formed my hypothesis and sketched out a template for a psychological study rooted in modern behavioral patterns of teens.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Michele Feeley Photography

Lynn Schiller

Mikayla Bullman

Milo Carpenter

Parents: Susan Petersen and Jon Bullman Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Arrowhead Elementary Future Plans: Attending Montana State University with either a Major in Business with a minor in photography or a Major in Education.

Teacher: Mr. Edward has had a huge impact on my Education. In his class, I was given insight to the capability of the human mind. I experienced a world of human emotion and learned how perspective affects society and life. Moreover, I was encouraged to improve my writing daily and experienced a classroom that was tolerant enough to allow the mind to grow.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was largely motivated by the idea of not allowing myself to decline as senior year progress. Also at the time I signed up, I knew I was willing to stay on the honors track, and to me this project was part of the final task of being an honors student.

Magnum Opus: My project is largely inspired by my love of photography. Since I have found such passion for it, my goal is my photography project was to find other seniors at West High who have passions like running, sketching, etc. The project then is to go up as a mural in the halls of West of all those I take pictures of.

Parents: Becky and David Carpenter Middle School: Laurel Middle School Elementary School: Graff Elementary School Future Plans: 4 year college and additional medical schooling, I want to continue my running career in college and hope to run on a scholarship.

Teacher: Mr. Lance Edward the junior year honors English teacher at Billings West High, I’m sure he is on most of the West surveys here. That is because he is an absolutely amazing teacher; he allows students to think beyond themselves and do more with their high school lives than just homework.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I was a transfer from Laurel and I wanted to show that even though I come from a smaller school and a much smaller town, that I have put in the equivalent amount of work. This program made me feel like this was the true culmination of my high school career and being the only transfer student in the program.

Platinum Program Project: The topic of my project is running. I love running more than anything, and I developed a bigger appreciation of it when I tore my meniscus and needed surgery. I wanted to share my love of that with others, so I conducted a fundraiser at a local middle school to help students in need of shoes and such.

Sunday, April 21, 2019

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WEST HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

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Kiralee Jones

Jack Davies

Lily Duray

Parents: Colette and Bill Davies Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Arrowhead Elementary Future Plans: After high school, I plan to study aerospace engineering and I am still considering offers from the University of Michigan, Villanova and University of Notre Dame.

Teacher: Two of the most influential teachers in my education were Mrs. Grummett and Mrs. Payne from Will James. They both inspired a true passion for playing bass, something which has been incredibly important in my life.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I wanted to challenge myself. I’ve never thought of myself as the smartest person, but I have always tried to work as hard as I can to succeed. I saw this as a great way to get the most out of my high school education.

Platinum Program Project: The topic I chose was music. I wanted to share my love of music with the next generation of students. I taught a jazz combo consisting of five kids, two sixth graders and three seventh graders, none of whom had played together before at Will James. We worked together weekly for several months, ending with a performance at their winter concert.

Parents: Susan and Bryant Duray Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Arrowhead Elementary School Future Plans: I am planning to attend the University of Montana through the Davidson Honors College. I will be majoring in accounting and taking the accelerated masters program in Missoula.

Teacher: Although I have had so many amazing teachers, Mrs. Valerie LaFrance definitely comes to mind when thinking of one who had a positive impact on my education. I had her as an eighth grade algebra teacher. She helped me express my love for math and allowed me to work ahead on assignments and stay after school to do extra credit sheets.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I joined the Platinum Program to challenge myself and hold myself accountable to take the most rigorous classes available to further my education. I also think it allowed me to serve the community in ways I had never thought of, such as using my artistic abilities to raise awareness for different foundations.

Platinum Program Project: I worked with Angela’s Piazza, a women’s and family shelter, for my project. I drew the eyes of people the foundation has helped. My medium was charcoal and I wanted to capture the emotions of the people helped.

All of the proceeds from the artwork, which was sold at Angela’s Souper Bowl fundraiser, went back to Angela’s.

Sunday, April 21, 2019

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

WEST HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

Vance Elumbaugh

Clara Bentler

Melissa Allen Photography

Jacob Halligan

Kendal Hatler

Dawson Gray

Parents: Tonya and Joseph Halligan Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Meadowlark and Arrowhead Elementary Future Plans: I have been accepted into the Air Force ROTC program at Montana State University Bozeman, where I will be studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Teacher: Mrs. Kimberly Webber has made the greatest impact on my life because she has taught me how to enjoy school while still learning and building great relationships. Besides teaching in the classroom, Mrs. Webber has taught me valuable life lessons. She never fails to brighten my day, and is always an amazing person to talk to about life or school.

Motivation for Platinum Program: I have always been an honors student. I have always pushed me to do my best in school and sports. My parents never fail to encourage me to complete what I start. Throughout my four years of High School, these honors classes have pushed me to learn more in the classroom and about myself.

Platinum Program Project: I am a Varsity runner at West High, and I decided to do something to help out the cross country team at West. I am researching the affects that yoga has on a distance runner, then I am writing a meta-analysis on my findings. With those results I am going to write a yoga plan for next year’s team to follow in order to help them be the best they can be.

Parents: Becky and Scott Hatler Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Poly Drive Elementary Future Plans: Go to Montana State University to work towards my undergraduate in Exercise Science then hopefully attend University of Southern California.

Teacher: My 6th grade teacher Mrs. Sheri Reitz Motivation for Platinum Program: I wanted to challenge myself before I went to college.

Magnum Opus: A website specifically for ACL and meniscus tears that consists of symptoms, videos of tests to determine the injury and rehabilitation.

Parents: Angie and Duff Gray Middle School: Will James Middle School Elementary School: Central Heights Elementary Future Plans: I will be attending Montana State University in Bozeman and majoring in pre-dental. My career goal is to be an orthodontist and an oral surgeon. I want to be able to help others feel confident when meeting someone for the first time because they have a great smile.

Teacher: The teacher that has had the most positive impact on my education would have to be my Junior Honors English teacher, Mr. Lance Edward. His class was easily the most challenging I have had in my education career. His class challenged me to raise my level of thought to a place it had never been, and it made me find my own way of thinking.

Motivation for Platinum Program: What motivated me most to participate in the Platinum Program was the challenge to myself to give back to the community.

Platinum Program Project: The topic of my project is: Utilizing Google Classroom to maximize communication and tutoring opportunities at Ben Steele Middle School.

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Sunday, April 21, 2019

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WEST HIGH SCHOOL PLATINUM STUDENTS

CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL VALEDICTORIAN

Jet Snelling

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Clark Marten

Abbigail Sparks

Graham Hammond

Parents: Michelle and Sam Sparks Middle School: Elder Grove School Elementary School: Elder Grove School Future Plans: I plan on attending Montana State University for Pre-Medicine to be a Pediatric Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon with a specialty in Cochlear Implants, a hearing device somewhat similar to an advanced hearing aid.

Teacher: Mrs. Nicole Bogunovich has made the biggest impact on my life. She encourages and cares about the students that come into her room. She goes above and beyond to make every student feel special and seen, even if it means giving up weekends and afternoons. She ensures all of us know she is in our corner and will support us in anything we undertake.

Motivation for Platinum Program: As a freshman, I wanted to take Honors and AP classes, not only to challenge myself, but to take steps in earning college credits. The Platinum Program was a way to give myself a sort of timeline for these challenges. It also allowed me to connect with my community and peers through my project and presentation.

Magnum Opus: My topic is the basic medical timeline of a deaf/hard of hearing patient looking to get hearing aids or cochlear implants. It includes interviews with many types of doctors including an audiologist, speech pathologist, and ear nose and throat surgeon.

Parents: Bronwyn and Steven Hammond Middle School: St. Francis Catholic School Elementary School: St. Francis Catholic School Future Plans: I hope to pursue a career in linguistics and language acquisition, and I want to travel to South America to immerse myself in Spanish.

Most challenging or Rewarding Class: Western Civilization has been one of my most challenging and rewarding classes. We read frequently and we often have many difficult assignments, but it’s been so enjoyable to learn about the history of so many different cultures and getting to read great works of literature.

Teacher: Señora Dicken, my Spanish teacher, has made a huge impact on my studies and my future. It was because of her that I’ve become interested in linguistics and Spanish specifically. She has always been supportive in the classroom and caring for all of her students, and she has made me aspire to a future in linguistics.

Extracurricular Activities: Model UN, swimming, piano, academic team, science Olympiad, National Honor Society

Sunday, April 21, 2019

Salute to Valedictorians 2019

to all

VALEDICTORIAN candidates,

PLATINUM students and 2019

gRADUATEs! Salute to Valedictorians 2019

Sunday, April 21, 2019

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fEarlEssly

READY

crEaTE collaboraTE quEsTion invEsTigaTE wondEr innovaTE The experts of anything all started as curious beginners.

Expertly prepared, we know our grads are ready for the next challenge.

ExxonMobil salutes all graduates in the Class of 2019.

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Sunday, April 21, 2019

Salute to Valedictorians 2019