This past month at West High, a group of students has been recognized for their outstanding character, creativity, and resilience. Lucy Hasenmayer (12), Abdo Kaid (12), Seira Yoshida (12), Kevin O’Dell (12), Ashon Amir (10), and Amanda Bruers (11) have been awarded for representing what it means to be a West High Warrior and for contributing to West’s community.

   Abdo Kaid, a graduating senior with a passion for STEM, voiced his pride in receiving acknowledgement for his hard work. Kaid explained that this past semester, he went to extreme lengths to achieve the results he desired in his AP Calculus AB course. “I felt really proud of myself because I put in so much effort. I need confidence for my future studies, and getting recognized for wanting to hone my skills makes me want to be a better student,” he shared. Kaid’s dedication to his studies was noticed by Ms. Haney, the teacher who nominated him. She remarked, “[Abdo’s] character and resilience stood out to me. He’s one of the few students who took me up on my offer to be [on campus] after school and help students with calculus. It makes an impression on me when a student shows that level of dedication.”

   Lucy Hasenmayer, an AP art student, humbly elaborated upon her nervousness and surprise of receiving the award. She explained, “I’ve always felt like a pretty average student so I was extremely surprised that I was selected for warrior of the month.” Nonetheless, Hasenmayer was very grateful for her nomination. She described the feeling of recognition as very “rewarding” and that it’s “pretty nice to receive some acknowledgement” for her hard work at school.

   Seira Yoshida, an Art 3 student, conveyed her honor at receiving the recognition. She emphasized the importance of always doing your best and being respectful to others. “The basic and little things are important,” Yoshida stated.

   As Ms. Haney emphasized, rewarding students for their hard work and creativity serves as a great incentive for students to strive for excellence. “Knowing that there’s recognition out there for hard work and for [students’] creativity, character, and resilience . . . makes our school community stronger,” she expressed. That said, for students wishing to display their character, Hasenmayer advised it best,: “Focus on the important things, whatever those things are just don’t let it out of your sight, just keep working hard to achieve your goals, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

   In honoring these six students, West High celebrates the diversity of talent and the depth of character within its student body. As these students continue to pursue their passions and inspire those around them, they serve as great examples of the values upheld by the West High Warriors.